Worn out ankle joint

[piggy2001uk]

Hi I have a worn out ankle joint which was diagnosed following a ct scan and arthroscopy to reduce the pain i was getting, i have very little cartilidge left and am looking at either a fusion or replacement in the future.
What i would like is some advice on how to manage my ankle until that point, i was in a non weight bearing plaster for 2 weeks so know my ligaments and tendons are tight and am doing my best to massage and exercise. Presently the pain feels like a spran and is no worse, what can i do to maintain a painfree joint, is there anything i can wear? what would be the best exercise i can do without putting to much pressure this joint?

Many thanks
Julie

[Heidi]

Hi Julie,

I would recommend the following:

Resistance band exercises....you can find these here:

http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/strengthening/resistancebands.php

You should also be doing plantar flexion and dorsi flexion exercises which aren't shown here....but basically all you need to do is use the band to resist the movements of pulling your toes up towards you and then pointing away.

Regular stretching three times a day for the calf muscles to try to keep them moving.

Use a wobble board or cushion

Use a cold therapy wrap or ice pack following exercises if it aches. You should make sure that when you are doind the exercises they are painfree otherwise you could be doing more harm. Start with a little and gradually build up.

Good luck!

[piggy2001uk]

Hi Heidi
Thank you for the advice it is much appreciated, i don't have a problem with dorsiflexion but my plantar flexion is not as good as my right ankle. When i am sat with my legs straight out in front of me my right foot will go completely flat against the surface (hope that makes sense), whereas my left will only go half way and it used to go all the way, i do get pain on walking in my bear feet and it is across the top of my ankle and i do still have some slight swelling and i had surgery 4 weeks ago.