A broken ankle should not be weighed down for at least 6-8 weeks, and in some cases even for 10 weeks. During this period, the patient uses crutches, initially wearing a plaster shoe and then wearing a special Walker brace. Gradual load on the limbs can only be started after receiving information from the orthopaedist regarding the occurrence of bone union.

The rehabilitation time after an ankle fracture varies - depending on the severity of the injury, it may last from 3 to 8 months. The patient's involvement in the rehabilitation process is of great importance for the duration of the recovery. Rehabilitation should always be carried out in cooperation with the physiotherapist and the orthopedist who performs the surgery or conducts conservative treatment.

Minor pain in the first 2-3 months after an ankle fracture may result from active bone remodeling processes. The active participation of the patient in rehabilitation allows to prevent pains resulting from the presence of postoperative scars or tissue adaptation to re-burdening with body weight. It should be borne in mind that some complex types of fractures may prevent the perfect reconstruction of the articular surfaces, which is related to a certain limitation of the ankle joint function. Some patients with massive ankle injuries may develop degenerative changes within 2-10 years despite maximum care.