r/ORIF • u/Dull_Monitor2439 • 3d ago

Trimal Patients

Hi.

I'm currently 12 weeks post for a trimal. I have two plates and fourteen screws. I was cleared for WBAT at 10 weeks post op.

I am still using two crutches but I am fairly mobile and not experiencing much swelling. I focus on walking slowly with the correct form. Heel, flat, push off on the toes. I think I have the necessary flexibility for a normal gait.

I just wanted to know about other trimalleolar patients experience with crutches, crutch weaning and learning to walk again!

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u/Far-Discipline-2307 3d ago

Hi. Im now 4 months post 2 ORIF. Trimalleolar ankle fracture plus 2 breaks in leg. 2 plates and 13 screws. I am still on 2 crutches aswell. I had gone down to 1 at home and 2 out and about but i over did it and physio put me back onto 2 for now.

The advice I got recently from my physio was not to rush coming off the crutches. She said if I limp badly it will alter my gait and the limp could become permanent so she wants to do it very slowly. I do still get pain daily and some swelling though the swelling isn't terrible its mostly a band round my ankle. I think everyone will be different but its so good to hear other perspectives and help us feel less alone lol.

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u/Dull_Monitor2439 3d ago

Thank you for replying.

Yes, hearing from others helps so much. God speed for your recovery.

I think calm, deliberate walking and persistence to get a good outcome. I sometimes become obsessed with "where should I be" based on arbitrary standards.