If you’ve had surgery on your foot or ankle, it’s important that you undergo a dedicated rehabilitation program. A good rehab plan will help you get moving and return to your day-to-day activities as quickly as possible!
Fully rehabilitating after foot or ankle surgery can take some time. Your doctor or surgeon may recommend you not put weight on the affected foot/ankle for 6-10 weeks, and due to period of immobilization it will likely take even longer for you to fully restore the affected area’s strength, range of motion, and balance.
At Ozark Physical Therapy Specialists in Mountain Home, AR, our team of physical therapists will develop an evidence-based program based on the nature of your surgery and overall recovery goals. We’ll work closely with you to stretch and strengthen the muscles and tendons of your foot and/or ankle through a step-by-step, evidence-based treatment plan.
What To Expect During Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
While your initial rehabilitation will likely begin at the hospital, you’ll need to continue outpatient rehab after your doctor releases you. That’s when our team of musculoskeletal experts steps in!
At first, you’ll likely have to use a mobility aid, such as crutches or a walker. Our team will ensure you’re using all equipment properly and can help you with pain management, including suggestions for activity modifications and other hands-on, proven pain relief techniques.
As the affected area heals, we’ll help you gradually and safely add more weight onto your injured leg, ensuring a gradual progression away from your mobility aid. We’ll also provide specialized exercises to improve your gait (walking pattern).
We’ll work with you to improve both the range of motion and the strength of your foot and ankle. The affected area will likely have reduced mobility after surgery, so stretching is crucial in helping you restore normal motion in your lower extremities.
Similarly, after a few weeks of avoiding weight on your affected leg, you’ll start developing muscle imbalances. Our team will provide a safe, effective strengthening program to address these imbalances and restore strength to your foot, ankle, and leg. We’ll start slow and gradually build in intensity based on your needs.
Finally, our experts can provide you with a return-to-activity schedule to get back to the sports and recreational activities you love–without risking reinjury.
Consider Ozark Physical Therapy Specialists For Your Rehabilitation Needs!
Rehabilitation after a foot or ankle surgery can be a long process, but outpatient physical therapy at our Mountain Home, AR clinic will help you see the results you’re looking for. Call us to schedule an appointment today to learn more about our ankle/foot post-surgical rehabilitation programs!
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!