When to Start Physiotherapy After a Broken Ankle?

An ankle injury can significantly affect an individual’s daily routine. Regardless of severity, it limits the person’s ability to walk and run. Hence, it is essential to receive immediate treatment to prevent further damage to the bones and muscles.

What causes a broken ankle?

Ankle fractures often occur during or after the body undergoes a traumatic event, such as a car accident, falls,/or sports injuries. Even when you’re feeling alright after experiencing any of the events listed above, it’s best to visit your physician or a physical therapist to help determine the extent of the damage or stress.

What are the common indicators of a broken ankle or ankle fracture?

Pain, bruising, and swelling are among the most common signs of a fractured ankle. Depending on the severity of the injury, the patient may experience difficulty bearing weight on the broken ankle. If the injury occurred during a sports event or while an athlete is training, a physician, nurse, or sports massage therapist can assess the severity of the injury and provide first aid before the athlete is transported to the hospital.

What are possible treatments for an ankle fracture?

While you are at the hospital, your healthcare provider will attempt to perform fracture reduction, where the broken bones are realigned to be in proximity to each other to facilitate healing. This procedure can reduce the risk of deformities and/or permanent functional loss. Then, the fractured ankle may be placed in a cast to immobilise the injured area and ensure proper bone healing. Therapists usually don’t recommend doing manual therapy in Dubai until the bone is fully healed.

When can the patient start therapy?

Patients are often prohibited from engaging in physiotherapy or other strenuous activities for weeks after surgery, or until the bones are fully healed. However, there may be instances in which they are referred for physical therapy to learn to use assistive devices, such as canes, crutches, or walkers. Once the fracture is healed, the patient may enrol in sports physiotherapy in Dubai or functional rehabilitation therapy to regain their strength and range of motion.

Whether you’re suffering from a fractured ankle or you feel that your range of motion has been reduced, undergoing ankle surgery, you may always seek the help of a physiotherapist for a proper diagnosis. Scandinavian Physiotherapy Center DMCC offers a range of treatment plans that are best suited to the specific needs of our clients. You may visit our clinic for consultation or book an appointment for functional rehabilitation.