Living with a Broken Ankle – Recovery and Mobility
Living with a broken ankle – recovery and mobility involves a phased return to movement, strength-building, and regaining confidence in daily activities. While recovery can be frustrating at times, most people fully heal. Navigating living with a broken ankle – recovery and mobility successfully depends on patience, proper rehab, and follow-up care.
1. Early recovery
For the first few weeks, doctors will immobilise your ankle. During this time:
- Elevate the leg to reduce swelling
- Use crutches or a knee scooter
- Take prescribed medications as needed
Even during rest, wiggling your toes and doing gentle stretches (as approved by your doctor) helps circulation.
2. Transition phase
Once the bone begins to heal:
- Doctors may allow partial weight-bearing as healing progresses
- Physiotherapy begins to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility
- Swelling and stiffness may persist but gradually improve
3. Full mobility and strength-building
By weeks 8–12:
- Physiotherapists gradually phase out walking aids as you regain strength and balance
- Balance and gait training begin
- Physiotherapists tailor strengthening exercises to fit your lifestyle (e.g., sports, work)
4. Emotional impact and daily life
Limited mobility may lead to frustration, especially for active individuals. Support from friends, family, and physiotherapists makes a difference. Planning accessible transport, home modifications, and workplace adjustments may be necessary.
5. Preventing future injury
- Wear proper footwear
- Exercise regularly to maintain ankle strength
- Be cautious on uneven surfaces
In South Africa, access to community clinics, physiotherapy centres, and online rehabilitation guidance makes it easier to recover from a broken ankle and regain mobility. Private healthcare may offer faster access to orthopaedic rehab programmes, but many public hospitals now include follow-up therapy.
With consistency and support, living with a broken ankle – recovery and mobility becomes a manageable chapter — one that ends with regained strength and confidence.
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