Foot and ankle injuries are common, especially in athletes and those with active lifestyles. Whether you experience a sprain or fracture or are recovering from surgery, having an estimated healing time will help you set expectations for the rehabilitation process.
Healing times for foot and ankle injuries depend upon the nature and severity of the injury and the type of treatment required. The surgeons at the Richmond Orthopedic Institute can tell you more about how long it takes for a foot and ankle to heal after injury.
Common Types of Foot and Ankle Injuries
The foot and ankle are complex structures that include bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Because of this, they are prone to a wide variety of injuries.
Ankle Sprain
This occurs when the ligament of the ankle over-stretches or faces a tear, often resulting from a sudden twist or turn. Mild sprains may heal in a couple of weeks, while severe ones might take several months.
Fractures
Fractures of the foot and ankle involve a break in the bones. Some fractures can be minor, while others may involve surgery. Minor fractures usually heal in six to eight weeks, while more serious breaks that involve surgery take several months.
Tendon Injuries
Tendons, including the Achilles tendon, can be injured due to overuse or sudden stress. Recovery from such tendon injuries can also take several months, especially if the patient requires surgery.
A doctor can correctly diagnose the cause of your pain and give you an estimate of the time it will take for your foot or ankle to heal.
Healing Time for Foot and Ankle Injuries
The time it takes to recover from an injury will vary depending on a person’s general health, the type of injury, and whether surgery is performed.
Sprains and Strains
The period to heal most minor sprains and strains ranges from two to six weeks. The R.I.C.E. method, which includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation, can treat most minor injuries. Some may require physical therapy to return to full range of motion.
Fractures
The healing time of fractures can range from six to 12 weeks or even longer, depending on the site and severity. Minor cases can be treated nonsurgically through casting or bracing the fracture. More serious ones do need surgical treatment, which, again, can further extend the period of recovery.
Post-Surgical Recovery
When surgery is required to repair bones, ligaments, or tendons, recovery time can vary. Most patients who undergo surgery will have to participate in physical therapy afterward to restore strength and mobility. The total time of recovery post-foot or ankle surgery may range from a few months to a year.
Healing Factors
Several factors contribute to how well and quickly a foot or ankle injury heals.
Age
Younger people heal more quickly, and older adults may heal a bit slower due to reduced circulation or bone density.
Severity of Injury
More serious injuries will take longer to recover. A minor ankle sprain may heal in weeks, but a severe fracture may take many months.
Treatment
Following the doctor’s treatment plan, which may include sustained rest, physical therapy, or medication in any combination, could help you ensure a timely recovery. Any failure to adhere to treatment recommendations may delay healing.
Operative Versus Nonoperative Treatment
Generally, injuries that require surgery take longer to heal compared to those that do not.
The length of recovery for a foot and ankle injury depends on the level of injury and treatment plan. Working with a specialist at the Richmond Orthopedic Institute can make a big difference in how long it takes to heal.
Discuss the Length of Recovery for Foot and Ankle Injury Recovery with a Doctor
In every foot and ankle injury, a personalized approach to treatment and rehabilitation can mean a shorter time for your foot or ankle to heal. A specialist can offer guidance and reassurance during this recovery process. With a visit to a professional, you can be sure that the right steps are being taken towards complete and timely healing. Contact the Richmond Orthopedic Institute to schedule an appointment today.