Total Ankle Replacement: Phase 2: My Personal Recovery Story

My 2nd phase of Total Ankle Replacement was about icing, scar massage and stretching.  During this phase, I was placed in a rigid remove able walking boot, however, with continued orders of non-weigtbearing.  Because of this I got around my house in a wheelchair (luckily I'm in a one story ranch) and when I wanted to go outside I would use my fixed two wheel walker to get outside (because of the of a one step threshold - amazing how these little obstacle can be a big deal.

Please check out the stretch video that I demonstrated in my previous post in phase I.  I also performed scar massage (once the scar was closed without any seepage) with Vitamin E (I got the capsules and cut them to release this wonderful liquid - it felt thick like honey but not sticky).  NOTE:  at first I just used Neosporin and then I transitioned to Vitamin E. I also used CBD cream into the ankle joint and tendons and regular lotion on the rest of my foot into my calf.  Below is a video of how I worked my scar.

I also continued to do floor Pilates and I began to use my patented Hooked on Pilates® MINIMAX.  The MINIMAX is totally lightweight and is easily carried by its handle or even gently tossed to land where I need it.  It also is an excellent positional bolster to elevate your ankle.  Below is a picture of how I used the MINIMAX to elevate my ankle.

Here is link to some exercises that you can do with the MINIMAX and work your body without pressure through your foot.  If you are interested in longer workouts please check out the Hooked on Pilates YouTube Channel.  Please note the MINIMAX is sold exclusively on the Hookedonpilates.com because it is my patented creation.

I began to also think of what I would need for when I could begin to weight bear.  I could see that my rigid remove able walking cast would require me to wear a substantial shoe (I used a hiking shoe) and I would still need more height to even my leg height.  I purchased an EVEN UP, which easily attaches to a substantial shoe - giving you a lift so that you are not waddling when you walk - which can cause pain in your hips, SI joint and your back.  I also bought 2 pairs of compression socks (20-30 mmHG - I liked the Doc Miller open toed socks).  I also bought a set of forearm crutches.

PLEASE CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE IMPLEMENTING ANY OF THESE IDEAS....THIS POST IS MY PERSONAL JOURNEY AND IS MEANT TO DEMONSTRATE MY PERSONAL REHAB.

Stay tuned for Phase Three - walking and physical therapy - Progress is being made!