Broken ankles are common because of the numerous bones in the foot and ankle joint that take a pounding. YBy performing specific exercises with a broken ankle, you can strengthen your ankle joint and improve the range of motion while preventing future ankle injuries. Your doctor and physical therapist may work together to prescribe a rehabilitation program based on the severity of the fracture, so follow all directions they give you.
Towel Stretch
Stretching exercises focus on ankle mobility and can be performed with a broken ankle after you can tolerate pressure on the ball of your foot. The towel stretch, for example, is performed by sitting on a chair with one leg straight. Wrap a towel around your toes and gradually pull the towel toward you until you feel a stretch in your ankle and calf muscle. Hold the stretch for 15 to 30 seconds, and repeat three times.
Ankle Rolls
Range-of-motion exercises with a broken ankle allow you to regain full function within the ankle joint. Do ankle rolls to improve the ankle's range of motion. Lie on your back or sit down, and lift your foot into the air. Slowly rotate and turn the foot in a circle, inward, outward, up and down for 30 seconds. Focus on moving only your foot and ankle, and repeat the rolls three times.
Heel Raises
Progress to strengthening exercises such as heel raises after you can stand on your injured ankle without pain. The heel raise improves the strength and function of your foot, ankle and calf muscles. Stand next to a chair, counter or wall for balance. Lift your body up onto your toes, and hold for five seconds before slowly lowering your heels to the starting position. Perform a total of 10 repetitions for three sets, and progress to single-leg heel raises as your strength increases.
Squat and Reach
The squat-and-reach exercise improves the strength, stability and function of your injured ankle along with improving your overall balance and coordination. Perform the squat-and-reach exercise by standing next to a wall or chair on you injured foot. Slowly squat down as you keep your foot flat on the floor, and reach for floor with your opposite hand. Repeat for 10 repetitions, switch to other foot, and repeat for two sets.
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