If you have decided to get ankle surgery in the city of Houston, then you may be worried about the recovery process. Navigating through it requires you to understand the types of surgeries, such as fusion, replacement, arthroscopy, and fracture repair. Having detailed discussions with your surgeon and making home arrangements for recovery care is the key to optimal preparation. As you navigate through this preparation, you will encounter something called weight-bearing progression. Let us see what this means and how it helps.
Non-Weight Bearing Phase
This is the first phase after your ankle surgery in Houston. During this phase, you will be advised to refrain from placing any weight on the ankle joint. This phase usually lasts from two to three weeks. This period depends on individual circumstances as well as the complexity of the surgical procedure. Assistive devices like a knee scooter or crutches may be necessary during this phase, as they will help you move without putting weight on your ankle. Make sure that you strictly follow your doctor’s instructions during this phase in order to avoid potential complications like surgical failure, additional injuries, and early onset of arthritis.
Partial Weight-Bearing Phase
The non-weight-bearing phase is followed by the partial weight-bearing phase, during which you will start to place half of your body weight on the injured ankle. This will happen under the guidance of your doctor or physical therapist. This phase may start approximately 3-4 weeks after the surgery. It includes exercises to facilitate healing and then gradually increase the weight set down on the ankle. You may need to use assistive devices like a walker or crutches for support.
Full Weight-Bearing Phase
This is the final phase in weight-bearing progression. During the full weight-bearing phase, your ankle can bear your full body weight, but you may still require assistive devices for support, especially during the early stages.
The shift from the first to the final phase depends on the complexity of the fracture, your rate of healing, and the need for additional rehabilitation, including physical therapy. Many patients who previously dealt with heel pain in Houston find that proper adherence to this phase is crucial for overall foot recovery. Make sure you strictly follow your doctor’s instructions and listen to your body.
Importance of Physical Therapy
Physical therapy plays a critical role in determining the success of your recovery journey. Not only does it help manage post-surgical pain and swelling, but also improves flexibility and range of motion, while strengthening muscles, tendons, and ligaments around the ankle.
It works by addressing the neuropathic pain symptoms like numbness, pain, weakness, tingling, and a burning sensation—similar challenges that many experiencing heel pain in Houston have successfully overcome through dedicated rehabilitation. Physical therapy usually starts 2-4 weeks after the surgery and may last for six weeks or more.
During your physical therapy sessions, the therapist is likely to use exercise therapy, manual therapy, and passive modalities specifically designed to help in recovery. Physical therapy will be uniquely altered to your specific circumstances and healing rate.
Final Take
Even though ankle surgery may seem daunting, the right preparation and recovery process can make your journey easy. Each step is critical in ensuring a positive outcome. Also, keep in mind that each person’s recovery is unique. So, make sure you follow your doctor’s advice and listen to your body so that you can have a fully healed ankle.
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