After many weeks of wearing that ankle boot or leg cast, your doctor removes that heavy and restricting medical protective gear. You had broken one or both bones on your ankles in a terrible fall some time back. So, it’s not a surprise that you can’t wait to get back to the normal hustle and bustle of life. But the doctor has some more information for you. The doctor has recommended some physical therapy in Ridgefield BJ to help you ‘recuperate well’. Those were their words and not yours. You are in a dilemma: Do you need physical therapy after an ankle fracture?
To provide more information on the topic, this article was brought to light. If you or any of your loved ones find yourself in such a situation, then this article is perfect for you. Continue reading and get more information on the sane.
Reduction in swelling
You might have realized that your ankle is still swollen, although there is no pain. Part of this is due to the lack of movement and flexibility of the ankle. This led to a reduced flow of blood in the area. Treatment offered by a physical therapist may come in the form of the use of the equipment and stretching exercises and regimen.
Remembering how to walk
Being in the cast for a number of weeks means making use of crutches for a significant amount of time. To add, most of your weight was on your opposite foot, the uninjured foot. Once you get the ankle cast removed, you might have noted the soreness of your just healed foot. This is where your physical therapist comes into play.
Using tried and tested methods, your therapist will help you to increase the weight distributed on your healed foot gradually. Guidance is also provided with regards to obtaining a proper and normal walking gait. The physical therapist will focus their instruction on the foot and ankle movements and the angle of your foot on the ground.
Restoration of ankle mobility
Your ankle can be quite stiff and offer you reduced mobility. For you to regain normal ankle flexibility and mobility, the therapist uses a mix of stretching, loading, and hands-on therapy exercises. This gently angles your foot in specific directions that will help in breaking down the scar tissue that is responsible for the stiffness in your ankle.
Returning to play
For athletes, a physical therapist is important when seeking 100% fitness that will allow you to partake in the next game or next round of the competition. Removal of the cast is not enough. You need to regain your strength and flexibility. And that only comes through physical therapy exercises.
When should you start physical therapy?
The use of the services of a physical therapist should be immediate. Strengthening and mobility exercises can start immediately to assist in achieving the best form for your ankle.
