Post op Pool time - Broken Ankle

Posted , 5 users are following.

Hello everyone,

I’ve been recovering from a broken fibula. A few days ago I hit my 6 weeks post op day. For the past 4 weeks I have been full weight bearing in a walking boot. My appointment is scheduled for Tuesday and the Doc mentioned taking my boot off and having me start to walk without it. 

Beings that it is the weekend, I am unable to contact my doctor for advice so I am here to get some input. 

The pickle I have found myself in is that I was invited to a picnic, and there will be a pool there. 

Do you think it is okay to go in the pool? Like I said, I am six weeks post op and my wound is heeled over and the scabs have fallen off. Does this mean I am no longer at risk for infection?

Also considering I am full weight bearing and have taken a few steps without my boot, to you think it’s safe to go in the pool?

Thanks!

0 likes, 6 replies

6 Replies

  • Posted

    The concerns here are 1: infection and 2: reopening of the wound (as you probably well know). At 6 weeks, the likelihood of either is very slim. And in the water you will be putting less weight on your leg than normal because of your natural buoyancy, so it should be more comfortable walking underwater than on dry land.

    All this being said; the safe answer is, if YOU are in doubt, don't do it. Have fun and be careful!

  • Posted

    Yes go for it, as soon as my cast came off at six weeks I went swimming straight away 
    • Posted

      I’m doing it, it’s too darn hot!!

      I couldn’t find much online about it, so I’m glad to see you did it as well and lived to tell the tale!

      Thanks!

  • Posted

    Izzi,

    Your story baffles me a bit-- if I read correctly you were full weight bearing a mere 2 weeks post-op. That is amazing considering that on average it takes bones about 4-8 weeks to mend enough for safe weight bearing at all-- even in a boot.

    I'd advise in any case to avoid going without protection of boot in or out the pool. All it would take is one twist or slip to land you back in surgery.

  • Posted

    I’d be afraid of slipping but that’s me...as this whole experience has me extra cautious and I too am weighing bearing  at 10 weeks post op...be careful.

Report or request deletion

Thanks for your help!

We want the community to be a useful resource for our users but it is important to remember that the community are not moderated or reviewed by doctors and so you should not rely on opinions or advice given by other users in respect of any healthcare matters. Always speak to your doctor before acting and in cases of emergency seek appropriate medical assistance immediately. Use of the community is subject to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and steps will be taken to remove posts identified as being in breach of those terms.