What Physical Therapy Looks Like After Ankle Surgery

Wiki Article

Ankle surgery is often a necessary step in recoveringfoot specialists in Glenview,  from a serious injury or chronic condition. Whether it's due to a fracture, ligament repair, or joint reconstruction, getting back on your feet—literally—takes time, patience, and most importantly, physical therapy. So, what exactly does physical therapy look like after ankle surgery?

Let’s walk you through the process, step by step.

1. The First Few Days: Rest and Protection

Immediately after surgery, your ankle needs time to begin healing. During this early stage:

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  Your ankle will likely be in a splint or cast to immobilize it.

  
  


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  You’ll be advised to keep your foot elevated to reduce swelling.

  
  


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  Crutches, a walker, or a knee scooter will help keep weight off the ankle.

  
  


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  Pain management and wound care will be the top priorities.

  
  

Physical therapy? Not just yet—but some light movements (like wiggling your toes or isometric exercises) may be encouraged to maintain circulation and muscle tone.

2. Early Recovery: Gentle Mobility (Weeks 2–6)

Once cleared by your surgeon, you’ll start physical therapy, usually around 2–3 weeks post-op. This stage focuses on:

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  Range of motion exercises – Controlled movements to prevent stiffness.

  
  


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  Swelling control – Ice, elevation, and compression techniques.

  
  


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  Non-weight-bearing strengthening – Gentle exercises for the surrounding muscles (like the calf, thigh, and glutes).

  
  


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  Manual therapy – Your PT might help move your ankle to improve joint mobility.

  
  

The goal? Regain mobility without compromising the healing process.

3. Progressive Weight-Bearing (Weeks 6–10)

As the healing progresses, your surgeon may allow gradual weight-bearing:

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  Gait training – Learning to walk properly with or without assistance.

  
  


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  Balance work – Using balance boards or foam pads to re-train stability.

  
  


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  Resistance exercises – Adding light resistance with bands or weights.

  
  

This stage can feel slow, but consistency is key. Your PT will monitor for signs of overuse or irritation and adjust accordingly.

4. Advanced Strength and Function (Weeks 10–16+)

Now it’s time to rebuild strength and get back to daily activities—or even sports:

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  Functional movements – Squats, lunges, and stair climbing.

  
  


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  Agility and coordination drills – For athletes or active individuals.

  
  


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  Plyometrics or jumping exercises – If your recovery allows it.

  
  


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  Sport-specific training – If you're returning to a particular activity.

  
  

You’ll also focus on preventing re-injury, with proper warm-ups, footwear recommendations, and home exercise routines.

5. Long-Term Maintenance

Even after formal physical therapy ends, ongoing self-care is vital:

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  Keep up with your home exercises.

  
  


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  Stay active without pushing too hard.

  
  


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  Check in with your PT or surgeon if you notice pain, swelling, or instability.

  
  

Ankle recovery isn't linear, and everyone heals differently. Listening to your body—and working closely with your healthcare team—is the best path forward.

Final Thoughts

Physical therapy after ankle surgery is a journey, not a sprint. From the first post-op week to the final functional tests, each phase has a purpose. The ultimate goal? Regaining strength, mobility, and confidence—so you can return to doing what you love.

If you're facing ankle surgery or currently navigating recovery, a knowledgeable and supportive physical therapy team can make all the difference.