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[Post Ankle ORIF] Anyone have issues w/their uninjured leg?
Hi. I am 49F, trying to relearn to walk again following ankle open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) surgery 12 wks ago after slipping on ice, dislocation + bimalleolar ankle fracture. I have a plate w/screws on the lateral side attached to my fibula, 2 screws medial side, and a Tightrope w/buttons. I was cleared for full weight bearing (FWB) and have been going to PT 2x a week for 6 wks and I still can not walk w/o crutches. I can barely stand on both feet after it warms up as of 3 days ago.
Swelling occurs every time I bear weight. I am unable to use a walker b/c I can't seem to push the walker in front of me, thanks to the early days of hopping on one foot using the walker. So PT advised I try to use crutches more now. I feel so unstable w/crutches but I am trying.
Now, I do try to take steps w/one crutch and then w/no walking aids, but fail every day. I end up doing this hop limp w/my uninjured leg. I do ok taking the step w/my injured leg, but when its time to shift the weight over and use my good leg…my knee wont bend and follow naturally. I can not walk w/out putting weight on the walking aid, not in a walking cam boot, or the new ankle brace I am using now. I am sad and frustrated. Note: my calf still has atrophy on the injured side as seen in a photo below.
Has anyone experienced this? What can I do to fix this as nothing done in PT is close to helping me over this hurdle?
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If you’re post-op x12 weeks or less you’re expecting too much too soon. The easy part was fixing the fracture. The hard part and the longest part is rehab. You not only had fractured your bimalleolar bones you damaged a lot of soft tissue, tendons, muscles. This is the reason you experience swelling when standing and I presume associated pain. Elevating the limb should take care of both the swelling and pain. If you’re still on narcotic pain meds you shouldn’t at this point. You must continue with your PT and home exercises they prescribed. Physical Therapist are the best thing for older adults with aging bones and muscles, and I swear by my PT for my spinal OA. Good luck with your recovery.
As for your good limb it’s hurting most likely because you now depend on it more than previously. Also depends on how good of shape your physicality was before the accident and surgery.