How to Stay Active when Recovering from Foot and Ankle Problems that Require Immobilization.

Whether due to injury or surgical intervention many foot, ankle and lower extremity disorders require a period of inactivity or immobilization in casts, walking boots or braces before patients can return to their normal activities. For many of my patient’s this is an “antsy” time.

Treatment of orthopedic problems tend to require a period of extended recovery. The biomechanics of the musculoskeletal system involves an intricate series of moving parts. The body’s bones, muscles, ligaments, joints, tendons, and other connective tissues need time to rest, repair and realign. Patients are eager to get back to their routine but their body is not quite ready. A physical and chemical process occurs when the cells and tissues of your body are healing.

How much time does your body need for recovery? There’s no single answer for this, as everyone is different. Variables like age, fitness level, sleep, nutrition, and stress can affect recovery as well as the procedure itself and underlying systemic problems (diabetes, arthritis, circulatory) that effect your overall health. It is well-known that staying active can help you feel better and for those patients who are physically engaged in a regular exercise program their mind will crave the need to keep moving. Being active is part of a healthy lifestyle however being too active too early after an injury or surgery may disrupt or delay healing.

As a physician it’s important to offer suggestions on how patients can stay active when they are immobilized. As a patient you should ask your doctor about what you can safely do during this period of recovery to keep your muscles engaged.

The primary goal of physicians and surgeons who treat disorders and injuries that require immobilization of bones and joints is to protect them to promote healing. There are several ways to stay active when recovering from foot and ankle problems that require immobilization including a modified form of yoga known as chair yoga and various stretching exercises. Depending on the reason for the imposed limitations needed during recovery certain activities may be more suited to your condition. Always consult with your treating physician for individual recommendations to match your clinical needs.

1. Chair Yoga

Chair yoga modifies yoga poses so they can be done while seated in a chair. These modifications make yoga practices more accessible to people who lack the stability or mobility to move or stand. With the help of a chair, you can still take advantage of all the positive benefits of yoga while keeping your injured foot or ankle safe. There are even some yoga practices that can be done lying in bed.

Chair yoga provides a safe, non-weight-bearing way to regain flexibility, strength, and circulation in the feet and ankles after immobilization. Focus movements reduce stiffness, improve mobility, and maintain fitness without putting pressure on the healing area. Chair yoga during recovery can help you stay active when recovering from foot and ankle problems that require immobilization.

2. Stretching

Something as simple as stretching can have incredible benefits and is a safe way to maintain flexibility during recovery. Stretching helps the lymph fluid move throughout the lymphatic system, a network of tissues and organs that circulates protein-rich lymph fluid throughout the body. Maintaining an active lymphatic system promotes a healthy movement of nutrients and waste, releasing blockages, preventing swelling and stiffness. A basic stretching practice that can keep your system flowing involve moving your arms above your head; hold the pose for five seconds and bring it down; repeat the motion four more times. Beyond that it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider.

Defining the benefits of stretching is best guided by your physician/ therapist team to ensure safety and achieve the needed benefits including increased joint range of motion, improved flexibility, reduced muscle stiffness and enhanced circulation. All needed to ensure proper recovery. Rely on the internet for information but not specific treatment. Personalized, professional care is necessary to manage individual recovery needs.

Dr. Marasco is a Diplomat of the  American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, the American Board of Quality Assurance and Utilization Review - Physician, Fellow American College of Podiatric Sports Medicine and Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.