I’m 72 & had a trimalleolar fracture 4 mo ago will I ever be able to walk again without pain?

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A month ago the orthopedic surgeon told me to put my boot in the closet and start wearing regular shoes he also told me to continue doing foot exercises and then he said there was no reason to come back to see him unless i have a problem he did warn me that it could take a year to completely heal but i have a lot of pain walking and climbing stair will that ever get better?

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2 Replies

  • Posted

    Yes!

    But it will take time. Im 69 and similar boat. These ankle injuries take forever to heal just dont push too hard! I'm 4 months in and going upstairs is like climbing everest!

  • Posted

    Hi Cindy,

    Yes, you will be able to walk again. You will go through many stages along the way (pain, tingling, limping, etc.). Did your surgeon mention physical therapy? I am 6 months in and have been doing physical therapy since week 11. I was told 8 weeks post-op that I could start walking with my boot. It took me at least 2-3 weeks to be able to take a few steps with my boot on. Here I am 26 weeks later and can walk really well with sneakers (but still limping when barefoot). This is such a LONG, SLOW process. I'm an active 45 yr old and need to get back to my routine with my family. It's been tough trying to manage everything and fit PT into the schedule, too. But I do as much as I can every day and ice my foot as needed. Wishing you daily milestones as you navigate your healing.

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