When is post-operative rehabilitation recommended for ankle fracture?

Surgery and immobilisation can leave the ankle stiff and the leg muscles weak. Rehabilitation may start with swelling management and permitted movement, then progress to ankle mobility, calf and leg strengthening, balance, walking practice and activity-specific training. Your fracture pattern, fixation, wound healing and follow-up imaging influence when each stage is suitable.

Follow the instructions for your cast, boot, crutches and weight-bearing closely. Elevate the leg when advised, keep follow-up appointments, and perform only approved exercises. Tell the therapist about pain, swelling and changes in walking so the plan can be adjusted. Learn more about [Ankle Fracture](/conditions/ankle-fracture/) and [Post-Operative Rehabilitation](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/post-operative-rehabilitation/).

Contact your surgical team urgently for worsening pain or swelling, a cold or discoloured foot, new numbness, wound drainage, fever, calf pain with swelling, chest pain or breathlessness. These symptoms need medical assessment rather than a routine exercise adjustment.

Ask when ankle movement may start, how much weight the leg can take, when the boot or crutches can change, which exercises protect the repair, and what milestones guide a return to work or sport.