Ankle Fracture — Non-Operative

South Bend Orthopaedics · SBO Physician Team

Weight-Bearing

NWB until allowed by physician; progressive WB in boot (25% increments every 1-2 wks); scale recommended to estimate WB

Key Restrictions

Cast or boot to immobilize; Weber/AO and Lauge-Hansen classification systems explained; wean boot to air cast or ASO in normal shoe; PT starts 2-6 wks post-injury focusing on motion/swelling first

Timeline & Phases

4 phases: Phase I Initial (NWB, cast/boot), Phase II Early Motion (begin ROM/WB per MD), Phase III Progressive Loading (closed chain, dynamic balance), Phase IV Return to Activity

Notes

Includes detailed classification systems; pre-injury gait/balance/crutch training recommended; return to sport: SL heel rise or SL hop on injured side; progressive balance (mini tramp, BAPS, Star excursion)

Surgeon / Author

SBO Physician Team

Published

March 2021