Does a previous ankle injury interfere with your quality of life? Are you constantly in pain and discomfort due to ankle problems? If so, ankle surgery may be the best option to correct the problem for good.

Recovering from your ankle operation may seem daunting, but it does not have to be. The following guide outlines how you can work with your Boise orthopedic surgeons to get back on your feet after your surgery.

Recovery Time

Everyone’s recovery timeline is different, but in general, you should expect the process to take around three to four months. It is important to meet with your surgeon before the procedure to go over the recovery timeline together.

This timeline may also include certain milestones, such as regaining ankle mobility completely. You may also have to visit with a physical therapist to evaluate your progress.

Your doctor may also evaluate important factors, such as when you can resume regular activity or switch to normal footwear following your ankle surgery.

Manage Your Pain

After your surgery, you will probably feel some pain when the anesthesia wears off. You should have a plan in place beforehand to keep yourself as comfortable as possible.

Elevate your ankle to limit swelling and reduce pain. It will allow fluids to drain away from the affected ankle.

In addition, try using cold compresses at scheduled intervals. These have numerous benefits, such as reducing swelling, numbing the area, and helping with your overall pain.

Your surgeon might prescribe pain medications, such as narcotics, to use after the operation. However, if you are uncomfortable with these, you can also use over-the-counter painkillers, such as Ibuprofen or Tylenol.

Weight-Bearing Restrictions

It is vital to not put weight on your ankle after you finish your surgery. Use mobility aids such as crutches or a wheelchair, and limit movement as much as possible.

Do not put weight on your ankle unless you get express permission from your medical team. Although it may not seem like a big deal, it could greatly interfere with the recovery process and even injure you further.

Ankle Stretches

Once you are well into the recovery process, you will likely need to visit regularly with a physical therapist. They can monitor your progress for regaining ankle mobility and give you exercises that you can do at home.

Some of the best stretches you can do for your ankle include:

• Ankle range of motion exercises
• Toe curls
• Arch doming
• Knee extensions

Even after you recover fully from your ankle surgery, you can still do these exercises regularly to keep your joints and muscles strong.

Begin Your Journey With Boise Orthopedic Surgeons

If you have foot or ankle issues, Boise orthopedic surgeons may be able to help resolve them. With this guide, you can make the most of your recovery time and get back in action.

Are you looking for ankle surgery in the Boise area? The Flint Foot & Ankle Institute is here to give you board-certified medical services. Contact us today or schedule an appointment online to get started.