A broken ankle is a common injury that can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort. Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the injury, but most people will experience some degree of limping while they are on the road to recovery. In this tutorial, we'll explain how to stop limping after a broken ankle.
Rest and Ice
The most important step in recovering from a broken ankle is rest. As soon as you sustain the injury, it's important to take some time off from physical activity and allow your body to heal. Applying an ice pack to the injured area can also help to reduce swelling and inflammation. Make sure to wrap the ice pack in a towel to protect your skin.
Take Medication
Your doctor may prescribe medication to help with the pain and inflammation associated with a broken ankle. It is important to take medication as instructed by your doctor to ensure the best results. Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can also be used to help manage the pain.
Wear a Cast or Brace
Your doctor may recommend wearing a cast or brace to help protect your ankle while it is healing. This will help to keep the ankle in the correct position and prevent it from moving too much. Make sure to follow your doctor's instructions on how to wear the cast or brace correctly.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is an important part of the recovery process from a broken ankle. Physical therapists can help to reduce swelling and inflammation and teach you exercises to help improve mobility and flexibility. Your physical therapist will also be able to provide guidance on how to walk correctly to minimize limping.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be recommended to help with the recovery process. Surgery may be necessary if the broken ankle does not heal correctly on its own. During surgery, the doctor may need to remove any pieces of bone that have broken off or fix any fractures that have occurred.
People Also Ask
How long will it take to stop limping after a broken ankle?
It can take several weeks or months to stop limping after a broken ankle. The amount of time varies depending on the severity of the injury and how quickly you are able to recover. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions and take any prescribed medications to help speed up the healing process.
Can I exercise after a broken ankle?
It is important to wait until your doctor has given you the okay to start exercising after a broken ankle. Initially, your doctor may recommend low-impact activities such as walking or swimming. As your ankle heals, you can gradually increase the intensity of your exercises.
How can I prevent limping after a broken ankle?
The best way to prevent limping after a broken ankle is to follow your doctor's instructions and take any prescribed medications. Additionally, wearing a cast or brace and engaging in physical therapy can help to improve mobility and reduce limping.
By following the steps outlined above, you can help to reduce limping after a broken ankle and get back to your normal activities. Make sure to listen to your body and take any necessary precautions to ensure a successful recovery.