Best Broken Ankle Recovery Tips
Broken ankles are incredibly common; in fact they are one of the most common bone injuries that a person can have. It doesn't matter if you're a world-famous athlete, or enjoy ambling strolls through summer, all it takes is a misplaced step and your ankle can break. A broken ankle can take roughly three months to heal, but the impact can last far longer.
To ensure that time spent between injury and full recovery is as pain and stress free as possible, there are steps you can take to ease the process. Small and simple lifestyle changes can make living with your broken ankle easier, while a wide range of affordable products are available to ensure that recovery is as comfortable as possible. Find out how to recover effectively in our Top Tips for Broken Ankle Recovery guide.
What Will This Guide Cover?
This guide will take you through each stage of recovery, from the initial post-surgery stage, to the prevention stage a few months further down the line. If you're looking for help with a particular stage of recovery, use the links below to skip straight to what you need.
- How Do I Know If My Ankle Is Broken?
- What Do I Need If I've Just Broken My Ankle?
- What Do I Need for the Later Stages of Recovery?
- How Can I Prevent Injury in Future?
- Extra Broken Ankle Recovery Tips
How Do I Know If My Ankle Is Broken?
This may seem like a strange question, but often a small fracture can initially feel less severe than a strain. In these cases it will become clear later on that the ankle is broken. However, treating the break as early as possible is key to a fast, effective recovery, so there are a few key signs to look out for.
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, we recommend consulting a doctor for a full diagnosis.
- Severe pain and tenderness
- Bruising and swelling
- Difficulty moving your foot
- Difficulty putting weight on your foot
- The ankle being an odd shape
- A snap noise during injury
- Bleeding
What Do I Need If I've Recently Broken My Ankle?
Severely broken ankles may require surgery in order to heal correctly, however, this isn't always the case. But regardless of whether you need surgery or not, the ankle will still need a level of care to heal either way. The key to effective recovery following surgery or in the immediate aftermath of injury is to rest the ankle and prevent placing it under any pressure.
We've selected three essential products that will help you keep the ankle rested and protected in the initial recovery stage.
Our Best Walker Boot for a Broken Ankle
Aircast AirSelect Elite Walker Boot
How It Works...
✔ Stabilises the ankle with a secure semi-rigid shell
✔ Four inflatable air cells provide compression to relieve swelling
✔ Lightweight rocker sole is lab tested for encouraging natural gait
✔ Three-strap adjustment system helps disperse pressure evenly
Ideal For...
✔ Initial stages of recovery
✔ Post-operative use
On a Budget?
If you're looking for an alternative that is less of a drain on the bank account, we recommend opting for the Aircast AirSelect Standard Model instead.
Why Do I Need This?
In the time immediately following a break or surgery, the ankle is in its most vulnerable state. At this stage, it is crucial that you limit the ankle's movement by keeping it stabilised inside a walker boot. The Aircast AirSelect Elite is by far the best walker boot for the job, as not only does it support the ankle, it also delivers pneumatic compression to ease pain and swelling.
Customer Feedback: "This boot is a large improvement over the one I got from the NHS. The padded heel and curved toe end takes a lot of pressure off my tibial stress fracture which my old boot wasn't doing." - Ben ★★★★★
Our Best Crutch for a Broken Ankle
Flexyfoot Standard Soft-Grip Handle Closed-Cuff Crutches
How It Works...
✔ Flexyfoot ferrule offers better grip and quiet ground contact
✔ Ergonomic handle provides superior hand comfort
✔ Stylish modern design for a non-medical look
✔ Available in Red, Blue, Orange and Pink.
Ideal For...
✔ Initial to middle stages of recovery
✔ Getting used to walking again
Want Even Better Support?
If you're looking for really high level support from a crutch, try upgrading to the M+D Forearm Crutches.
Why Do I Need This?
Ideally, you don't want to be walking at all immediately after an injury or surgery, as placing pressure on a weak ankle before it's had time to heal can set you back. However, once the ankle is healed enough to bear a small amount of weight, a reliable set of crutches will help you do this safely. Don't just settle for the standard hospital crutches either, upgrade to the Flexyfoot Crutches for greater comfort and noiseless ground contact.
Customer Feedback: "Having been using NHS crutches, I can't be more delighted with these flexyfoot crutches. I hated the noise the old ones made, but no more, these are so quiet and unobtrusive. I find them comfortable to use and would recommend them to anyone. Thank you." - Phillippa ★★★★★
Our Best Leg Elevation Pillow for a Broken Ankle
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How It Works...
✔ Ergonomically designed to support the knee and calf
✔ Helps keep the ankle raised without causing discomfort
✔ Encourages blood circulation to prevent stiffness and tightness
✔ Available in white, pink or blue
Ideal For...
✔ Ankle elevation
✔ Sleeping comfortably with a broken ankle
Need Extra Support?
Keep heavy blankets off of your ankle with the Leg Raiser and Cradle Bundle.
Why Do I Need This?
Elevation is another key ingredient to any broken ankle recovery plan. Most people use a stool or table to keep their leg raised, but this can be uncomfortable and potentially dangerous. Instead, use a soft pillow like the Harley Leg Raiser, which is made for this exact purpose. Ergonomically designed to maximise comfort, this elevation pillow is essential for a good night's sleep.
Customer Feedback: "Very comfortable and supportive. The ergonomic shape really helps to support the knees (unlike straight wedges) and take the weight off the calves, thus keeping blood flowing rather than pooling. Very pleased with product and service. Would recommend." - Deborah ★★★★★
What Do I Need to Ease Pain Throughout Recovery?
Pain and swelling can be a problem right throughout recovery, but thankfully, with a bit of ice and compression, you can ease these symptoms whenever they get too much. Below are a few of our best ice pack options to help you counteract inflammation.
Our Most Cost-Effective Ice Pack
Dura-Soft Foot and Ankle Ice Pack Wrap
How It Works...
✔ Provides continuous cold therapy to relieve pain and swelling
✔ Ergonomically shaped to deliver precise ice therapy positioning
✔ Can be used for hot or cold therapy
✔ Fits both left and right feet
Ideal For...
✔ Easing pain and swelling
✔ Middle stage of recovery
Looking For an Even Cheaper Alternative?
The LP Hot and Cold Pack provides hot and cold therapy at half the price!
Why Do I Need This?
Designed to match the exact shape of your foot and ankle, the Dura Soft Ice Pack allows you to sit back and relax while icing the ankle, which is easier and more long-term effective than a frozen bag of peas. The padded inserts are easy to freeze, and the insulated material helps the ice stay icy for as long as possible.
Customer Feedback: "Excellent product. After a recent ankle break there was a lot of swelling and soreness of the ankle and foot. The first time I applied the wrap I noticed a reduction in the swelling and the pain was eased. Along with recommended exercises I use the wrap regularly and it is definitely beneficial - Kevin ★★★★★
Our Most Comprehensive Ice Pack
Aircast Ankle Cryo/Cuff Cold Therapy Bundle
How It Works...
✔ Gravity-fed cooler unit re-circulates ice cold water
✔ Improves circulation to reduce pain and swelling
✔ Adjustable ankle cuff provides varying levels of compression
✔ Provides up to eight hours of cryotherapy
Ideal For...
✔ Easing pain and swelling
✔ Middle stage of recovery
Looking For Even Better Therapy?
Upgrade to the Automatic Cooler Version for cooling with intermittent compression.
Why Do I Need This?
If you want to give your ankle the best physiotherapy treatment possible, we recommend opting for the Aircast Ankle Cryo/Cuff and Cooler Bundle. This gravity-fed system re-circulates ice cold water around the ankle cuff to deliver ice-cold treatment for up to eight hours. This allows you to sit at home comfortably while the Cryo/Cuff works to ease pain and swelling.
Customer Feedback: "I used a Cryo Cuff when having physiotherapy after breaking my ankle and after years of using a bag of frozen peas decided to purchase my own. It is fantastic at reducing swelling and easing pain, nothing beats it due to wraparound nature of the cuff. My only regret is not buying one sooner- I highly recommend it to anyone suffering from arthritis.- Joseph ★★★★★
How Can I Prevent Injury In Future?
Once you've recovered enough to walk unaided and carry out your usual activities, there may still be some lingering pain and instability that could last for quite a while. It's much more likely to re-injure the ankle once it's already been weakened, especially if you decide to take part in sports.
If you are worried about injuring yourself again, an everyday ankle brace like the one below can significantly reduce the risk.
Our Best Ankle Brace for Injury Prevention
How It Works...
✔ Plastic stabilisers prevent the ankle from rolling
✔ Provides light compression to counteract pain
✔ Single-fastening strap for quick and easy fitting
✔ Made with breathable materials to ensure lasting comfort
Ideal For...
✔ Preventing rollover and re-injury
✔ Returning to sports and activity
Not Happy with the Colour?
The Aircast A60 is also available in white.
Why Do I Need This?
When the ankle is weakened, it becomes far more likely to twist it as you walk or run, resulting in another injury that sets your recovery time back even further. The Aircast A60 Ankle is designed to prevent this from happening, with stabilisers on either side of the ankle to eradicate the risk of rollover. The A60 has been used in sports by top level athletes such as Andy Murray, so you know it's the real deal.
Customer Feedback: "Broken ankle and ruined ligaments meant golf was becoming a chore but saw one of my daughters friends using one of these, bought one and haven't looked back - amazing product and huge difference in stability." - Christine ★★★★★
View More Ankle Braces
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BioSkin TriLok Ankle Ligaments Support
- Ankle support for conditions that range from sprains to arthritis
- Works by controlling the motion of the forefoot for correct positioning
- Suitable for use with socks, shoes and while playing sports
- Designed to work as an extra ligament to improve foot and ankle problems
Aircast AirSport Ankle Brace
- Sports brace that cushions the ankle and prevents rollover
- For support when you're almost ready to begin exercising again
- Assists with rehabilitation for functional recovery
- Quick and easy to apply with no measurements required
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Thuasne Malleo Dynastab Boa Ankle Brace
- Lightweight ankle brace offering a high level of support
- Ideal for restarting sports after mild to moderate sprains
- Quick and easy fitting with the Boa Lacing System
- Extra straps and a flexible metallic splint maximise stability
Extra Recovery Tips
We've covered pretty much everything you need to know about recovering from an ankle break. However, we still have a few extra tips to help you fight off boredom, stay safe at home, and stay clean while wearing a plaster cast.
Don't Hide Away
Breaking your ankle doesn't mean you have to become a recluse. You can still make plans to meet friends, go out for dinner with your partner or see a film at the cinema, and staying indoors can have a negative impact on your mental wellbeing. By still making plans, you can ensure that your injury does not get the better of you.
Make Your Home Safer
Now that you are less mobile, you'll want to make sure that your living space is adjusted accordingly. This can range from clearing out clutter to fixing loose carpets on the floor. By taking a few steps to ensure that your living quarters are safe, you can retain a certain level of comfort and confidence.
Don't Pass on Hygiene
Wearing a cast and showering can be a little difficult, especially if you've been given a plaster cast. However, you will still need to wash, which is easier said than done with a broken ankle. To make things easier, the LimbO Half Leg Plaster Cast and Dressing Protector fits right over your cast, protecting it from any water during a bath or shower.
LimbO Half Leg Plaster Cast and Dressing Protector
Make Your Recovery Comfortable
We understand that suffering an ankle break can be pretty traumatic, especially if you lose your mobility because of it. We really stress that it doesn't have to be a nightmare, and by following a few simple steps you can make your recovery time more comfortable. If you'd like to learn more about how to treat ankle problems, please see our Cast Protectors, Cold Therapy, Crutches and Rehabilitation categories for more information.
Do you have any questions about broken ankle recovery? Please don't hesitate to let us know in the comments, or find us on Facebook and Twitter.
Tags: Aids for Daily Living, Aircast A60 Ankle Brace, Ankle Pain, Ankle Supports, Health and Care Expert Series.