I had my short leg walking cast removed today. The orthopedic doctor didnt give me any exercises or anything to do to get my foot/ankle/calf muscles back into shape. They are so sore. It hurts so bad to walk on it.I know it will be stiff for a while. How can I help it so it isnt so stiff? Thanks!
2006-08-10 15:13:01 · 2 answers · asked by Anonymous in Health ➔ General Health Care ➔ Injuries
What you are experiencing it totally normal but, the good news is, it will won't last long. It is not unusual for joints to be stiff and to not move easily. Motion and function will return with time and normal use. Therapy is not usually needed. While you are in the cast, your muscles atropied, due to not being used, so they have to rebuild.
Gentle daily cleansing of the skin, not scrubbing, and application of body lotion helps the dead skin to slough off and will soften the new skin.
As for activity, resume it slowly. The soreness and stiffness will gradually disappear as your muscle mass rebuilds. Return to your normal activity level slowly and letting your leg guide you. You still may be need to use icing and elevation, especially while you rebuild your leg's strength and stamina. If you feel the level of pain is worse than it should be, please contact your doctor...a brace might be necessary to give you some support as you gradually rebuild.
2006-08-10 16:26:52 · answer #1 · answered by ilse72 7 · 5⤊ 0⤋
usually if a cast is removed, then you are ready to move without restriction. physical therapy is given direct to your need ie type of injury. If thisis not a fracture, then you should do all stretching of the ankle. one of the device i recommend is diy or go to medical supply store to get a 2 feet diameter round board with an half of a 10 cm round wooden ball under the center of the board. You can stand on it and move around the ankles(either one foot or both feet on the board). you will be fine.
2006-08-10 16:18:14 · answer #2 · answered by shyerenyehmd 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋