An ankle fracture, often referred to as a broken ankle, occurs when one or more of the bones that form the ankle joint—the tibia, fibula, or talus—are cracked or broken. These injuries are commonly caused by falls, sports accidents, or other forms of trauma. The severity of the fracture can vary greatly; while some breaks are simple and stable, others may involve multiple bones and require surgical intervention.

At Advanced Foot Care Center, with convenient locations in Thorofare and Salem, NJ, we guide patients through every stage of ankle fracture recovery, including customized rehabilitation programs to ensure optimal healing and mobility restoration.

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What Happens After an Ankle Fracture?

Initial treatment depends on the location and severity of the fracture. For simple breaks, conservative care—such as bracing, icing, and anti-inflammatory medication—may be sufficient. However, more complex or unstable fractures may require surgical correction to realign and stabilize the bones.

Regardless of whether treatment is surgical or non-surgical, rehabilitation is a critical part of the recovery process. Once the bone has healed enough to bear weight, a structured physical therapy plan is essential to restore strength, flexibility, and balance.

Nonsurgical Ankle Fracture Rehabilitation

If surgery is not required, the ankle is usually immobilized in a cast or removable brace for several weeks. During this time, patients are advised to avoid placing any weight on the ankle. Our physical therapy team will assist with:

  • Safe use of crutches or mobility devices
  • Preventing muscle atrophy and joint stiffness
  • Designing at-home exercises to promote healing

Once the immobilization phase ends, our therapists implement a personalized rehabilitation plan, which may include:

  • Strength training for ankle and leg muscles
  • Gradual weight-bearing progression
  • Stretching and range-of-motion exercises
  • Balance and coordination training

Most patients can expect to resume normal daily activities within 3 to 4 months, depending on their age, activity level, and adherence to their therapy program.

Post-Surgical Ankle Rehabilitation

When surgery is necessary, recovery typically involves a longer and more cautious approach. After the procedure, the ankle is protected with a brace or cast for up to 6 weeks. Patients may be restricted from bearing weight on the affected foot for 8 to 12 weeks.

Early rehabilitation focuses on managing pain and reducing swelling through:

  • Ice therapy
  • Electrical stimulation
  • Soft tissue massage

As healing progresses, physical therapy will shift toward regaining range of motion and rebuilding strength. Later stages of rehabilitation may include:

  • Targeted mobility exercises
  • Progressive resistance training
  • Proprioception and balance work

Full recovery after ankle fracture surgery can take up to 6 months, and sometimes longer, particularly for athletes or individuals with physically demanding jobs.

Comprehensive Ankle Rehab at Advanced Foot Care Center

At Advanced Foot Care Center, we’re committed to helping patients in Thorofare and Salem, NJ recover from ankle fractures with expert care and personalized rehabilitation plans. Whether your injury was treated conservatively or surgically, our experienced team is here to support every step of your healing journey—so you can return to the activities you love with confidence.