Ankle Fracture — ORIF

University of Colorado Anschutz (CU) · Dept. of Orthopedic Surgery, Foot & Ankle

Weight-Bearing

NWB 0-3 wks; WB advancement per MD/fracture type wks 3-6; WB status and restrictions per MD wks 6-12; no restrictions if healing complete wks 12+

Key Restrictions

Boot/cast per MD; no impact or torsional exercises/activities wks 6-12; WB advancement and activity restrictions per MD and fracture type; pilon fractures have more conservative care plan; short leg splint/cast/boot x 6-12 wks per surgeon

Timeline & Phases

7 phases: Pre-op, Post-op (0-3 wks), 3-6 wks, 6-12 wks, 12-16 wks, 16-20 wks, 4-6 months; low impact sports at 16-20 wks; high impact sports at 4-6 months

Notes

.edu site; includes pre-op phase (gait assessment, AD instruction NWB); joint mobilization at 6-12 wks to restore foot/ankle motion; SL activities on varying surfaces at 12-16 wks; low impact return (cycling, rowing, swimming, Stairmaster, elliptical) at 16-20 wks; high impact return (jogging, running, jumping, multi-planar movements, uneven outdoor surfaces) at 4-6 months

Surgeon / Author

Dept. of Orthopedic Surgery, Foot & Ankle