You will have a plaster cast on your ankle and foot for 2-3 weeks following surgery

After your first follow-up appointment, a walking boot will be worn for the following 6 weeks

At approximately 8 weeks, you will wean off the boot and begin walking in a regular shoe

The surgical incision has been closed with sutures

Do not get the cast or wound wet for the first 2-3 weeks.  When showering place a bag over the cast and secure with tape to your leg to avoid the cast and wound getting wet

Stitches will be removed at your 2-3 week appointment

After the stitches are removed, you may begin to shower after 2-3 days

Do not immerse the foot in water (bath, hot tub, pool, lake) for 4 weeks

Do not apply any lotions or creams on the wound for 6 weeks

If your syndesmosis is torn and you require fixation of those ligaments:

• You will be non-weight bearing for the first 6 weeks while in a walking boot. You will be given crutches after surgery (or you may bring your own)

• After 6 weeks you may begin fully walking on the foot

If your syndesmosis is intact:

• You will be non-weight bearing for the first 2-3 weeks while in a cast. You will be given crutches after surgery (or you may bring your own)

• After 2-3 weeks you may begin fully walking on the foot in an Aircast

You will be given a prescription for pain medication and Aspirin (blood thinner)

Pain medication should be used regularly for the first 24-48 hours, when required for the first 1 to 2 weeks, followed by Regular Tylenol

Aspirin should be taken for 14 days (unless you have an allergy to aspirin)

For right foot surgery you are not permitted to drive until you have completely weaned off the boot

For left foot surgery, please contact your insurance company to see if you are permitted to drive

Driving is not permitted while on narcotics

Two weeks off work is recommended for initial recovery

If you are able to get to work safely, and will be seated for the majority of the day, you may return to work a couple days after surgery.  This is assuming you are not taking narcotic pain mediation.

From 2-8 weeks post-op, sedentary duties are recommended

By 8 weeks you can gradually return to full duties

If your job is physically demanding, return to full duties is usually possible around 12 weeks post operatively

You will have your first appointment 2-3 weeks after surgery in the Fracture Clinic

Your next appointments will be at 6 weeks, 3 months, then 6 months postoperatively

You will have x-rays taken at these appointments

It is normal to experience mild to moderate pain, numbness, or tingling for the first 2 weeks following surgery

Please come to the emergency department if you are suffering from severe pain

You will get back to most of your activities by 3-6 months

Swelling often remains for 6-12 months

You are expected to experience a FULL recovery (no pain, no swelling, ability to walk, etc.) in 9-12 months

Two weeks after surgery you will be referred for physiotherapy