Stretching whilst in cast, how can I stop it?

Foot care
1

Hi all,

I fractured my left ankle about 6 weeks ago, had an open cast on for about 2 weeks and a proper one nwb for the rest of the time.

About 2 weeks ago, I noticed that first thing in the morning I wake up to my leg trying it’s best to stretch whilst in the cast. I am worried that I may be doing some damage to the ankle. Has this happened to anyone else?

Thanks

Lolly :slight_smile:

2

I also had an irresistable need to stretch in the morning after surgery about 4 months ago. My surgery was for torn ligaments and tendons and chipped cartilage. The stretching was painful but I don’t think it caused any injuries. I don’t experience it as much now.

3

Thanks for you r reply.

Was this whilst in a cast? I am really worried that I am damaging something in my ankle whatever I do.

4

It was while I was in a boot, but the doctor said I didn’t have to wear the boot all the time if I was very careful not to injure the ankle again. I’m not sure my experience is directly comparable to yours because I had a different injury. I just wanted to let you know that I also had an irresistable urge to stretch in the morning. Have you asked your surgeon?

5

Thanks, I guessed as much.

I am due to go back to hospital on Monday- intend to ask then.

6

no damage stretching in cast at all. I did it all the time, to the extent you can actually stretch in a cast. I’m 7 months out, you will be fine. :slight_smile:

7

Thanks for the reassurance. I was getting really worried. :slight_smile:

8

Hi im couple of weeks ahead of you fractures ankle and tibia. Im the same my.leg stretches itself in the morning too. Im out of cast now and had xray and all on track so stretching does’nt seem to harm anything

9

Thanks for the reassurance. I hope that my cast comes off on Monday though- I am fed up of it! Lol