After fractured ankle, when is weight-bearing premature?

Question:

I had a bi-lateral malleolar fracture that was surgically repaired with plates and screws four weeks ago. The hard cast is now off, and I am in a removable cast with crutches. The thing is, I have no pain. I'm not complaining. The ankle is still somewhat swollen, but the joints seem to have a full range of motion with no pain--that foot feels little different from the other foot, which is uninjured. I can stand on both feet with no pain, either while standing or afterwards. My surgeon suggests that I could begin weight-bearing in a week or two, "as your pain level permits", but my pain level right now, at four weeks, is essentially non-existant. Would I do damage by weight-bearing now, with the cast on?

Answers:
Many people have no pain when first attempting weight-bearing...however, then they "over-do it" and have pain later. While clinical healing usually takes about 8 weeks (clinical healing refers to the ends of the two bones meeting), the bone continues to change for up to a year! Some fractures take longer or shorter to heal depending on type, age, location and the health of the person. When considering all these things, the easiest way to answer is "Yes, you may do further damage by walking on it before it is advised." Your surgeon in the only one who actually saw inside your ankle and is the best person to advise you on your weight-bearing status. Don't even stand on it until your surgeon has advised you to resume weight-bearing.

IT DEPENDS ON YOUR AGE AND THETYPE OF FRACTURE

More Questions and Answers

The consumer health information on youqa.com is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions.
The answer content post by the user, if contains the copyright content please contact us, we will immediately remove it.

After fractured ankle, when is weight-bearing premature?

Health Resources