Torn ligaments

[djsapg]

Was wondering if there is anyone out there that can help.6 month's ago i fell down 2 steps one leg went down the other twisted and stayed on the top step but twisted back.

I badly hurt my ankles and feet swellings abd bruised .

After months they didnt get better .i had xrays nothing broken but saw a physio who im seeing now he said ive torn ligaments. I have daily exercise s to do with bands but still they are not healing after another month . I have no strength in my ankles never really have .they turn over very easily im hyoermobile and i often twist them. Ive fallen over a few times whist walking on uneven ground. Im a bit over weight and have 3 stone to loose.but im wondering with torn ligaments and swollen ankles what is best exercise. I hate swimming and all ready do pilates i walk my dog but not far.. I Was wondering whether to join local gym. If there is anyone out there who have either professional advice or have had torn ligaments for a very long time. I would appreciate any help.

[BridgeGirl Administrator 2 stone]

Oh, that sounds a nasty accident, dsajpg

You need to let the physio - and your GP - know that you aren't making progress. I googled "nhs exercises for torn ligaments in ankles" and there are various information sheets from hospitals: chances are these are the same as you've been given, but you can try that.

As for weight loss, I'm sure you know that what and how we eat has a much bigger impact than exercise. I'd recommend using the Daily Diary which should help with planning and ideas.

[Tiggerr]

How frustrating djsapg. It can take quite a while for torn ligaments to repair so do be kind to them whilst they do so.

As BG has already mentioned, managing what you eat will be key to losing (80-90%) and there are people here losing weight who are unable to exercise at all.

Good luck and I hope you heal soon!

[Tokovaig]

Hi djsapg

I fully empathise with you here. How awful for you. I have foot and ankle problems which makes any walking/movement very painful. As previously mentioned there are people still aiming to lose weight who are unable to exercise so all I can say is doing something is better than doing nothing. And if you are doing Pilates that is brilliant, well done.

During my worst pain days I lay on the sofa with my feet up hoping the swelling reduces. I have tried to stay active, even deliberately placing things in high places to make myself stretch for them. Stretching arms and legs whilst sitting, dancing in a chair. I know it is hard to feel a part of what everyone else seems to do so easily when you are struggling.

I am thinking for myself that once I have lost some weight I may not experience as much pain, especially with all the weight bearing down on my ankles and feet (where the problem is). At the moment I even find it hard to contemplate an exercise bike (because of the ankle pain).

I hope some of my comments have been helpful to you though. The problem for you is that maybe your condition dictates enforced rest??? I am unsure??? But losing weight is something that is possible. I would say, be gentle on yourself, and allow healing. Does your Pilates instructor know about your condition?

I have a really good tip but it involves being in a swimming pool. Hold on to side of the pool, inflated armband on one foot, then lift and lower your leg in the water (pushing against the water with the armband on the foot helps to build muscle strength. You can do it out to the side, back or front of your body (always holding on to the side of the pool). Swap the armband to the other foot and repeat. But if you hate swimming pools it might not be for you.

My best wishes to you

[djsapg in reply to Tokovaig]

Thank you. I rest with feet up when possible but i work and have family so rest is limited. Pilates teacher knows and helps me. Im back at the physio next Thursday so will say they are feeling worse.

[Tokovaig]

Yes I understand, rest is not easy with work and family. I hope you receive correct help.