What tests should be performed after an ankle fracture? How should recovery proceed after surgery?

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Ankle fractures are no minor matter. If not treated promptly or cared for properly, recovery can become significantly more difficult. In some cases, the fracture may not heal properly, leading to lifelong consequences. Therefore, if you suffer an ankle fracture, it’s best to go to the hospital immediately without delay. So, what kind of tests will you undergo once you arrive at the hospital?

01What tests should be performed after an ankle fracture?

Upon arrival at the hospital, the doctor will first conduct a brief physical examination to make an initial assessment. This involves observation and inquiry to determine if the affected area exhibits pain, the degree of swelling, and the presence of blisters, bruises, or discoloration, while also checking for any noticeable deformity. Next, the doctor will gently press the painful area to observe the patient’s response to pressure. They will also ask the patient to gently rotate the ankle to assess range of motion.

The patient will then be scheduled for an X-ray examination. This includes both an anteroposterior view of the ankle joint and an image taken with the ankle joint internally rotated 20 degrees. This assessment helps determine the extent of any ankle fracture and whether surgery is necessary. Some patients may also require a CT scan. The CT imaging provides a reliable basis for determining the surgical approach and guiding subsequent treatment.

02 Management of Patient Daily Living

1. Maintain a Healthy Living Environment

After returning home, ensure the patient’s room is well-ventilated and receives ample sunlight. Regularly change bedding and clothing to provide a clean living environment. This not only prevents infections but also promotes a positive mood, which aids in wound healing.

2. Pay Attention to Diet

During the early recovery phase for fracture patients, the diet should be very light. Focus on consuming vegetables, fruits, eggs, and dairy products. This approach not only provides essential nutrients but also helps prevent constipation.

For patients in the middle stage of fracture recovery, it is acceptable to moderately increase meat intake, but avoid excessive amounts to prevent constipation or excessive weight gain.

For patients in the later stage of fracture recovery, it is beneficial to consume more protein-rich foods such as shrimp, egg yolks, vegetables, and fruits, as these promote bone healing.

03How to Recover Through Exercise

Action 1: Single-Leg Step

Key Points: Perform this exercise in a standing position with your weight shifted forward. Step forward with the affected leg to support your body, shifting your weight onto the front leg while maintaining stability. Return to the starting position. Repeat this movement in 2 sets of 8 repetitions each.

Exercise 2: Single-Leg Stand

Key Points: Stand with arms crossed over chest. Keep legs relaxed. Slowly and tentatively shift weight onto the affected leg, then lift the unaffected leg while maintaining body stability. Repeat this exercise in 2 sets of 8 repetitions each.

Exercise 3: Wall Squat

Key Points: Stand with your back against a wall, arms crossed over your chest. Position your feet half a step away from the wall, leaning your body weight against it. Squat down while keeping your back flush with the wall. Inhale as you lower yourself, exhale as you rise. Keep knees aligned with toes to prevent knee joint strain. Repeat this exercise, performing 2 sets of 20 seconds each.

Perform these three exercises 40 minutes after meals, 2 to 3 times daily. Consistent practice significantly aids in healing after an ankle fracture.