Richard Haynes PTA/CPT - 2/3/2009

Question
Had surgery on 1/22. Am full weight-bearing, but still using a walker. As an athlete, I'm anxious to know what exercises NOT to do while recuperating. I have been doing foot flexion(?) exercises, leg lifts in all directions; slight knee bends. How much can I push myself without re-injuring the area? (Doc is not very specific, just tells me to stop if groin pain occurs)

Answer
Hi Greta,

Well it sounds like you are doing the exercises that need to be done until your doctor gives you full clearance to get more aggressive.

Avoid right now things like partial mini-squats,leg extensions that will torque the area,

I see you are doing some sort of a modified squat already but be careful not to overload the fracture area.

The foot flexion exercise you are talking about is what we call ankle pumps a very basic exercise of course.

Do not push the "slight knee bends" too much right now unless the doctor said too.

You are doing what would be advised right now due to the surgery date and your age. When you can get more aggressive will be determined by your doctor of course.

Also add short arc quads. Place a bolster under your affected leg rest your knee on it lift the leg keeping the knee on the bolster and hold it there for a slow count of five to ten.
Do 10-15 of those once or twice a day as well.
You will have things covered until you can push harder.

The fracture was in a delicate place so do not be to aggressive.


Richard Haynes
Punta Gorda, Florida.
www.totaljointfitness.com
www.richardhaynes.com