Non-Weight Bearing Exercises After Ankle Surgery for a Speedy Recovery
Non-Weight Bearing Exercises After Ankle Surgery for a Speedy Recovery
Ankle surgery is a common procedure that can be necessary to address a variety of conditions, from sprains and fractures to arthritis. After ankle surgery, it is important to follow your doctors orders and engage in non-weight-bearing exercises to help your ankle heal properly.
What are Non-Weight Bearing Exercises?
Non-weight-bearing exercises are exercises that can be performed without putting any weight on the injured ankle. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, these exercises, which promote mobility and strengthen the muscles around your ankle, are crucial for recovering from ankle surgery. They help promote mobility and strengthen the muscles around your ankle.
Benefits of Non-Weight Bearing Exercises
There are many benefits to engaging in non-weight-bearing exercises after ankle surgery, including:
* Reduced pain and swelling
* Improved range of motion
* Strengthened muscles
* Improved balance and coordination
* Decreased risk of re-injury
Types of Non-Weight Bearing Exercises
There are a variety of non-weight-bearing exercises, including:
* **Range of motion exercises:** These exercises help to increase the range of motion in your ankle. Examples include ankle circles, ankle pumps, and calf stretches.
* **Strengthening exercises:** These exercises help to strengthen the muscles around your ankle. Examples include calf raises, heel raises, and toe curls.
* **Balance and coordination exercises:** These exercises improve your balance and coordination. Examples include balance boards, wobble boards, and single-leg squats.
How to Perform Non-Weight Bearing Exercises
When performing non-weight-bearing exercises, it is important to:
* Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.
* Stop if you experience any pain.
* Use a supportive surface, such as a chair or table, to help you balance.
* Perform the exercises for a few minutes each day.
When to Start Non-Weight Bearing Exercises
You should start performing non-weight-bearing exercises as soon as possible after ankle surgery. Most doctors recommend starting within a few days of surgery and continuing for several weeks or months.
Following Your Doctors Orders
It is important to follow your doctors orders carefully after ankle surgery. Your doctor will tell you when it is safe to start putting weight on your ankle and when you can resume normal activities.
Stories of Success
Here are a few stories of people who have successfully recovered from ankle surgery with the help of non-weight-bearing exercises:
* Jane Doe, a 55-year-old woman, had ankle replacement surgery. She started performing non-weight-bearing exercises within a few days of surgery. Within a few weeks, she was able to walk without pain and resume her normal activities.
* John Smith, a 30-year-old man, had ankle fusion surgery. He started performing non-weight-bearing exercises within a few days of surgery. Within a few months, he was able to run and play basketball again.
* Mary Jones, a 40-year-old woman, had ankle arthroscopy surgery. She started performing non-weight-bearing exercises within a few days of surgery. Within a few weeks, she was able to dance and hike again.
Conclusion
Non-weight-bearing exercises are an important part of recovering from ankle surgery. By following your doctors orders and performing these exercises regularly, you can help your ankle heal properly and get back to your normal activities as soon as possible.
**Here are some additional tips for recovering from ankle surgery:**
* Use crutches or a walker to avoid putting weight on your ankle.
* Elevate your ankle when you are sitting or lying down.
* Apply ice to your ankle to reduce swelling.
* Take pain medication as prescribed by your doctor.
* Get plenty of rest.
* Eat a healthy diet.
* Dont smoke or drink alcohol.