FootArk Clinic - Premier Foot & Ankle Care Mumbai | Dr. Abhishek Kini
+91 98765 43210
[email protected]
Mumbai, India
Post-Surgical Care Protocol

Lateral Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation

Comprehensive post-operative care instructions and recovery timeline following lateral ligament reconstruction surgery.

Quick Navigation

Jump to specific sections of the rehabilitation guide

Overview

Procedure and surgical details

Day of Operation

Immediate post-surgery care

Weeks 1-2

Early recovery phase

Week 3 & Beyond

Clinic review and therapy start

Procedure Overview

Understanding lateral ligament reconstruction surgery



Surgical Technique

Following ankle arthroscopy, the Anterior Talo-Fibula Ligament (ATFL) and/or Calcaneo-Fibula Ligament (CFL) are reconstructed by tightening the tissue by detaching, advancing and reattaching them with bone anchors or sutures.

Note: This procedure helps restore ankle stability and prevent recurrent sprains.

Day of Operation (Week 1)

Immediate post-operative care instructions

Immediate Post-Surgery Protocol

  • Rigid walking boot placed during surgery
  • Mobilise touch weight bearing (10 % body weight) with 2 crutches
  • Home the same day
  • Strict elevation at the level of the chest
  • Move toes, knee and hip
Important: Maintain strict elevation and minimal weight bearing during the first week for optimal healing.

Weeks 1 - 2 Post Operatively

Early recovery phase care guidelines

1

Week 1 - Maximum Elevation

Strict elevation at the level of the chest, for 23 hours a day (for pain relief and wound healing)

Tip: Proper elevation is critical during the first week to minimize swelling and promote healing.
2

Week 2 - Reduced Elevation

Strict elevation at the level of the chest 40 minutes every hour

Mobility & Movement Guidelines

  • Mobilise touch weight bearing (10 % body weight) with 2 crutches
  • Move toes, knee and hip. Straight leg raises
Exercise Note: Gentle movement of adjacent joints helps maintain circulation and prevent stiffness.

Week 3 Post Operatively & Beyond

Transitioning to full weight bearing and therapy

Clinic Review Appointment

After 2 weeks completed, you will have a clinic review by the doctor for comprehensive assessment.

1

Medical Assessment

  • Removal of boot for inspection
  • Wound inspection
  • Removal of sutures
2

Weight Bearing Progression

Rigid walking boot refitted. Now full weight bearing (FWB, 100 % body weight)

Milestone: You can now bear your full weight comfortably in the boot.
3

Physical Therapy Begins

Start physiotherapy to restore strength, flexibility, and ankle stability

Therapy Goal: Gradual restoration of ankle range of motion, strength, and proprioception to prevent future injuries.