Ankle Fracture — Non-Operative

Orthopedic Specialists of Seattle · Clinic protocol

Weight-Bearing

FWB as tolerated in walking boot; D/C crutches/AD as quickly as possible; boot x 4 wks then transition to regular shoes with ankle brace

Key Restrictions

Boot is protective not immobilizing — remove when seated/lying; alphabet exercises 2x/day; towel Achilles stretch 5x hold 5 sec; ankle brace during transition to shoes; step-wise activity ramp-up

Timeline & Phases

3 phases: Boot phase (0-4 wks), Transition to shoes (4-6 wks), Progressive activity (6+ wks); 10-12 wks for full healing

Notes

Web-based protocol (not PDF); notably more aggressive early WB approach (FWB day 1 in boot); patient-friendly language; emphasizes boot removal for exercises

Surgeon / Author

Clinic protocol

Published

2023