broken 5th metatarsal and restoring ankle flexibility

Greetings all:

Here's a good synopsis of my injury (with a pics link): http://bit.ly/rqB3NY

As you can see from the pics the repair looks pretty good and I'm walking very well on the foot now. As I write this, I'm about to leave for the gym for 30 min on the elliptical and 30 min in the pool.

My concern has shifted to my ankle. The time spent in the casts and boot has stiffened this area tremendously. I can roll my right ankle to the floor, not even close with my left. So why is this a concern? Well, I play soccer "competitively" for a 35-year-old, and this lack of flexibility concerns me. I dont want to cause a new injury to another area. My doctor believes my level of activity is good enough to forego physical therapy but I tend to doubt that. Basically, he has left the decision of pt up to me. fyi, im 6' 2", 178lbs. Per the doc, I'm tentatively scheduled to begin running the treadmill in 4-5 weeks.

Can anyone provide some advice? maybe flexibiltiy exercises? should i go to PT?

I wrote you a nice long response and then it dissapeared, aarrgghh.

Welcome to HW, I have found tons of info here and many wonderful people that are very nice.

I do think your drs comment is reasonable for someone with moderate activity levels but considering your level of activity I would choose to go to therapy. You may only need some guidance to start you on the right track till you feel comfortable with your progress.

I would seek out a therapy center that has PT's that are also certifed Athletic Trainers. These duel certified therapists will have an increases knowledge of what you need to get back to competative sports. The good news is that getting the flexibility and strength back in that ankle shouldnt take to long, but its important to do it correctly to avoid a stress related injury.

Going to the pool wil be very helpful for you. Ankle pumps, toe raises on steps and fast walking in the water can be helpful to increase strength and flexibility.

Good luck with your rehab and keep us posted on your progress.

Shell

Ankle pumps are just bringing your toes up and pointing your toes down while you are in bed. And toe raises are raising up on your tippy toes, this strengthens and stretches both the ankle and calf area. When done on the edge of the steps it intensifies the stretch.

In your case though a PT would be able to tell you exactly what is best for you based on your injury/ repair etc.... Its very important to follow any restrictions your dr may still have in place.

Good luck,
Shell