With your heels together, move your toes apart, as shown in the picture.Point your foot up and down within a comfortable range of movement.You will notice that the boot you have been given has a thicker sole, by matching this height on the uninjured side you will reduce any stress on your other joints.Īnkle and foot range of movement exercises. We can provide you with a specialist diabetic boot if required.įootwear for your uninjured foot: We would recommend choosing a supportive shoe or trainer with a firm sole for your uninjured foot. This is particularly important if you have problems with your skin. Stopping smoking during the healing phase of your fracture will help ensure optimal recovery from this injury.įor advice on smoking cessation and local support available, please refer to the following website: or discuss this with your GP.ĭiabetic patients: If you are diabetic please contact us to discuss your boot. It is important that you consider this information with relation to your recent injury. In extreme cases it can stop healing altogether. Medical evidence suggests that smoking prolongs fracture healing time. Try to walk as normally as possible as this will help with your recovery. These exercises will help the healing process.Įarly weight bearing (putting weight through your injured foot) helps increase the speed of healing. This will ensure your ankle and foot do not become too stiff. Follow the exercises below without causing too much pain. You can use pillows or a stool to keep your foot upĮarly movement of the ankle and foot is important to promote circulation and reduce the risk of developing a DVT (blood clot). Raise your ankle above the level of your hips to reduce swelling. Try to rest the foot for the first 24-72 hours to allow the early stage of healing to begin. Apply this to the sore area for up to 15 minutes, every few hours ensuring the ice is never in direct contact with the skin. X Heavy tasks and long walks may still cause some discomfort and swelling.Ī cold pack (ice pack or frozen peas wrapped in a damp towel) can provide short term pain relief. You can begin to resume normal activity - be guided by any pain you experience. You may want to wear the boot if you go on a longer walk. Start around your own home first, then try outside. Try to stop using the boot and to walk without crutches Mild pain and swelling can continue for 3-6 months. Regularly perform the exercises below to improve your movement. Use the crutches to take some weight of your foot. It is ok to take the boot off at night and when resting at home. Or, if you are experiencing pain or symptoms, other than at the site of the original injury or surrounding area, please get in touch using the telephone or e-mail details at the top of this letter. If you are worried that you are unable to follow this rehabilitation plan, or have any questions, then please phone the Fracture Care Team for advice. If you have not received an appointment letter within one week please contact our team. Your consultant will discuss this with you. There is a small chance the fracture will not heal naturally and surgery may be required. This is to check the heeling of your fracture. You will see a foot and ankle specialist 12 weeks after your injury. The boot you have been given should be work when walking to help settle your symptoms. You may find it easier to walk on your heel to start with. You may walk on you foot as comfort allows. Swelling is often worse at the end of the day, elevating your foot will help. It normally takes 6-12 weeks for this fracture to heal Use the video or information below to gain a better understanding of your injury and what can be done to maximise your recovery. This information will guide you through the next 6 weeks of your rehabilitation.
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