REHABILITATION AFTER ANKLE TENDON FIXATION

STAGE 1 0-4 WEEKS AFTER SURGERY

The goal is to secure the tendon attachment
The upper limb should be kept in a sling so that the tendon can begin to heal.
The support can be removed a couple of times a day to allow movement of the elbow joint.
However, you should be careful with all strenuous movements.
The first few nights it is easier to sleep in a semi-sitting position with pillows under your back.
It is a good idea to use anti-inflammatory medications regularly for a few days, after which the dosage can be gradually reduced depending on the pain.
In the first few days, cold packs applied to the surgical area in 15-minute intervals will help relieve pain.
Physiotherapy begins 4 weeks after surgery and it is a good idea to book an appointment in advance.

PHASE 2 4-6 WEEKS AFTER SURGERY

Aim for assisted movement to shoulder level
Follow-up visit to the surgeon's office 4 weeks after surgery
The tendon is still in the process of being attached and any independent lifting movements of the amputated limb should still be avoided.
To prevent the shoulder from becoming stiff, you should start with pendulum exercises and lifting movements towards shoulder level with the help of the other hand. You can get instructions on these at your doctor's appointment and more detailed instructions from a physiotherapist.
Physiotherapy visits usually occur 1-2 times a week, but exercises you do at home are the foundation of rehabilitation.

STAGE 3 6-12 WEEKS AFTER SURGERY

The goal is to lift the limb independently above shoulder level.
After 6 weeks from surgery, the sling can be removed. Physiotherapy visits continue and now you can start so-called active movement exercises without the assistance of another hand.
The hand is initially stiff and has limited movement, but over the course of weeks and with persistent training, the situation begins to improve. Rehabilitation focuses on stretching the joint capsule to create the conditions for active movement. The recovery schedule for the range of motion is individual and is not directly proportional to the extent of the tendon tear that was removed.
All lifting movements performed with resisted weights should still be avoided.

STAGE 4 3 MONTHS – 6 MONTHS AFTER SURGERY

The goal is to restore normal motion.
Recovery from tendon repair often takes 6-12 months in total.
Due to long periods of inactivity, muscle strength is weak and gradual upward strength exercises can be started at 3 months. These use resistance bands and small weights. Return to physical work begins at this stage at the earliest. Contact and throwing sports should be avoided for up to 6 months.