Persistent hard ankle swelling
I'm 36/M and had a bimal fracture 9 weeks ago, with surgery 8 weeks ago (was delayed due to swelling).
I have a plate on my fibula, a screw on the tip of the tibia, and a screw pinning one of the ligaments.
I was given the green light for full weight bearing 2 weeks ago and have been walking crutchless around my house, two crutches outside the house, and a single crutch if I need a hand free.
I haven't been experiencing too much pain, although there seems to be a lot of swelling around the ankle joint, which feels very firm and doesn't go down with ice and elevation.
My ROM is generally OK apart from my dorsiflexion, which is extremely limited (0cm using knee to wall test)
I did quite a lot of walking a couple of days ago (2 crutches but no pain). I woke up the following day with noticeably more swelling, significantly decreased ROM and a dull ache at the joint.
My physio asked if I had an appointment to see the surgeon to discuss the swelling, but I don't have one for another 2 months.
If my ankle is sore and extra swollen, I know I've overdone it and that I should pull back a bit, but it's the persistent hard swelling I'm most concerned about as I believe that is what is restricting my dorsiflexion.
I realise it's still very early days for me, but I'm concerned I won't regain full ROM unless I can reduce the hard swelling.
Is there anyone here that's had a similar experience and has some advice to offer?
The photo was taken in the middle of the day so I had been active, but the swelling doesn't go down much more than this.
Thanks!