ANKLE FRACTURE REHABILITATION
A Step-by-Step Rehab Program by Elite Level Sports Physiotherapist Paul Tanner.
What is an Ankle Fracture?
An ankle fracture is a break in one or more of the ankle bones. It usually requires immobilisation in a cast or boot, followed by structured rehabilitation. Symptoms often include pain, swelling, bruising, and restricted movement once the cast is removed. Without proper rehab, stiffness, weakness, and the risk of further injury remain high. Our program restores mobility, strength, and control through safe, progressive phases.
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Cure My Ankle Fracture
Our step-by-step rehabilitation app is designed to fix it – for good!
Why Structured Rehabilitation Is Essential
Bone healing alone isn’t enough — when the cast comes off, muscles, balance, and range of motion must be restored. Controlled loading, progressive strength training, and movement retraining are essential. This program delivers guided video sessions for mobility, activation, strength, and balance. Additionally, progression is criteria-based, so you only advance safely when your readiness allows.
Is it suitable for me?
This program is suitable for anyone with long-term, or acute Ankle Fracture. The program is based on what Paul would do with his elite Footballers but adapted for use by anyone. Whether you are recovering from a recent fracture, or your injury occured months ago, our criteria based program takes you step-by-step to full competition fitness. Always consult your surgeon for advice first.
“Trusted by physiotherapists who have worked with Premier League players and England Rugby.”
Program Author
Paul Tanner
Paul is Head of Medical at Bristol City FC and has previously held senior roles at Millwall Football Club, providing comprehensive match-day and training-ground physiotherapy and medical support.
His career also includes positions as First Team Physiotherapist at Norwich City FC and Senior Physiotherapist with London Wasps Rugby, giving him extensive experience at the highest levels of professional sport.
How does it work?
The program consists of 4 progressive phases, with a 5th phase focused on injury prevention and long-term mitigation. You’ll only move on to the next phase when you’ve reached specific exit criteria, ensuring recovery is safe and effective.
Understanding the injury: The mechanism of an ankle fracture is the same as an ankle sprain, which can make them difficult to distinguish at first. Lateral ankle sprains are more common, so fractures of the lateral malleolus also tend to occur more frequently.
Phase 1
Immediate Care: Apply this phase if your ankle exhibits symptoms such as swelling, redness, heat, or pain.
Phase 2
Re-loading: Introduce more load and strength to the ankle. If swelling or inflammation occurs, return to the PRICE principles.
Phase 3
Capacity Increase: Work towards enhancing the ankle’s capacity by further strengthening
Phase 4
Final Recovery Stages: Concentrate on completing the healing process during this phase.
Phase 5
Sustaining Strength and Flexibility: Use your preferred exercises from phases 3 and 4, incorporating them into your regular training routine to preserve strength and flexibility.
What’s included?
The program includes the following elements:
Treatment & healing
This covers how and when to apply treatment such as cold therapy & compression, heat, massage, and taping.
Exercises
Over 60 different exercises with video demonstrations covering mobility & stretching, activation, strengthening, motion control/proprioception, and functional or activity-specific exercises and running progressions.
Priority support
If you have any questions about the program or your progress, then use in-app support to get in touch with our qualified sports therapist for advice.
Got Questions? We’ve got answers.
How long does an ankle fracture take to heal?
Minor fractures may heal in 6–8 weeks, while more complex breaks can take several months. Even after the bone heals, stiffness and weakness can remain.
Can you walk on a fractured ankle?
Walking is not usually possible until the bone has healed and weight-bearing is allowed by a doctor. Trying too soon can delay recovery or cause further damage.
What is the best treatment for an ankle fracture?
Treatment depends on severity. Some fractures heal with rest, immobilisation, and gradual weight-bearing, while others may require surgery. Once the bone has healed, a structured rehabilitation program — like the one in our app — restores mobility, strength, and confidence for a safe return to activity.
Do ankle fractures need surgery?
Not always. Stable fractures may heal with immobilisation and rehab. Surgery is only required if the bones are displaced, unstable, or if the joint is affected.
Visit our full FAQ page for detailed answers about the programs and using sportsrehab.app