Ankle fractures occur frequently and are often the result of the ankle rolling or twisting in or out. Fractures are often confused with sprains, however, a sprained ankle involves tearing of the tissue, while a fractured ankle involves a break in the outside bone (fibula). Once the ankle in injured or broken, the ankle becomes susceptible to future injuries. Exercises for a broken ankle are essential since they not only strengthen and rehabilitate the ankle but also improve its overall range of motion. This helps prevent future foot injuries.
Using Physical Therapy
A fractured ankle is often accompanied by all or some of these symptoms: pain or discomfort at the fractured area (foot to knee area); presence of swelling; presence of blisters at the area of the fracture; bruising; inability to stand and walk; and bone protrusion through the skin.
After an ankle fracture or sprain, your physician may instruct you to perform several ankle exercises or to participate in physical therapy.
Immediately after an injury, the physician will usually instruct the patient to rest and let the injury heal. During this rest period, the patient must avoid placing pressure or strain on the injured ankle. When the ankle is healed enough to begin exercise, the doctor will inform you. Part of ankle rehabilitation is to perform a series of exercises following the resting period.
Towel Stretch Exercise
The towel structure exercise is one of the most commonly used exercises following an ankle fracture. Sit on the floor and stretch one leg out to the front. Wrap a towel carefully around the bottom of your foot and your toes. Gently move or pull the towel toward you using your hands, while ensuring your knee does not bend. Keep holding the towel for approximately 15 seconds and then release. The exercise should be repeated three times.
Other Exercises
The standing calf stretch exercise is another common exercise. Face the wall and place your hands flat against wall so they are approximately at your eye level. Place one leg behind you, planting the heel firmly on the ground and place the other leg in front of you. Twist the back foot gently so it is facing in, and slowly tilt or lean toward the wall, continuing to lean until the back of your calf feels a slight stretching. The position is held for 15 to 30 seconds. Do this three times. Switch leg positions and repeat on the other leg. Perform this exercise several times daily.
Standing soleus stretch exercise is a third common exercise. Stand facing toward the wall with your hands on it at chest level. Slightly bend both of your knees with one foot at the back, then slightly tilt or lean into the wall. Continue to lean toward the wall until your lower calf begins to experience a stretching sensation. Tilt your toes on your back foot slightly in, ensuring your heel is planted firmly on the ground. The position is held for 15 to 30 seconds and then return to resting position. This is done three times.
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