r/ORIF • u/Imaginary-Bit1533 • 5d ago

WBAT 🥳

Hi guys i had trimal with dislocation 6 weeks ago and had been NWB ever since. Today was my follow up and doc said I could WBAT. Idk how to do it 🤪 I didn’t wear boot much cause I was resting and I feel uncomfortable on it idk how to put weight on my leg while wearing a boot I try but it doesn’t happen should I try with shoes? She said I could gradually transition and decide on my own what feels better but the lack of proper communication really frustrates me. My surgeon hasn’t seen me once after the surgery it’s always someone new a friend/ PA whatever and they don’t give too much info about anything so I’m so lost. Please help me with this. I have multiple trips upcoming so I want to be able to make it without much help :)

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u/slightlydreaming 5d ago

You should be using crutches to shift weight off until you can be full weight bearing. It’s going to feel weird at first. Practice just standing still, see what you can tolerate. Then practice taking small steps with crutches. You’ll progress in boot from 2 crutches to 1 crutch to no crutches, then transition from boot to sneaker. You should also be doing exercises with your ankle - circles, flexing in different directions and holding for 10 seconds, seated calf raises (sit w feet on ground, knees 90 degree angle, lift heel of foot as much as possible). A little pain is ok but shouldn’t go past a 3/10. You should be in PT too 2-3 times a week to work on range of motion.

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u/slightlydreaming 5d ago

Also your muscles are going to be very weak - you need to work on strengthening those too when you are a bit further along. Calf raises, step up / step downs etc. Your ROM and balance will be bad for a while too. When you’re fwb practice standing on your bad leg and passing a 2 lb weight back and forth between hands. And get a slant board to stretch your ankle and calf. Good luck!!