How long does fracture fixation surgery take to work for an ankle fracture?

Plates or screws help keep the broken ankle positioned while it heals. Swelling and stiffness can continue after surgery, and a splint or boot with limited weight bearing may be needed. Pain settling is only one sign of progress; examination and imaging guide changes in protection, walking, movement, and strengthening.

Elevate the leg, follow weight-bearing instructions, use walking aids as taught, and keep the dressing protected. Move the toes or other joints only as instructed. Do not test the ankle by walking unsupported or increase activity because swelling briefly improves. Attend reviews for wound, alignment, and rehabilitation checks.

Get prompt advice for worsening redness, drainage, fever, a wet or tight splint, or uncontrolled pain. Seek urgent help for calf swelling, sudden breathlessness, chest pain, or toes that become cold, blue, numb, or difficult to move.

Ask when weight bearing may change, which exercises are safe, how to manage swelling, what imaging will show healing, and when driving, work, stairs, or sport can be considered.