Walking after Os Trigonum excision?

I had surgery about two weeks ago, on July 25, to remove an Os Trigonum bone. I was in a cast until August 5, at which time I was put in a walking boot. We have a physical therapy appointment set for Monday, as it is the earliest we will be able to get there. I was curious, both for personal and professional reasons, about when I will be able to begin weight bearing/walking again. Is it bad if I put weight on it now? How strict should i be about it? Also, is it bad to move my foot in certain ways? Will scrunching my toes or moving my ankle around damage anything in the healing process? Finally, I have a question about swelling. I have noticed in the past few days that the ankle does seem to be a bit swollen. Is that normal? Is it bad? Should I continue to elevate it, and how much? Please let me know. Thanks in advance. :)

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Weight bearing and walking would need to be initiated gradually and it may be around 4-8 weeks before you can begin normal weight bearing and movements, while strenuous exercises make be delayed by another few weeks. You need to be strict about giving the foot adequate rest since any kind of trauma may interfere with adequate healing. The swelling would subside in a few days with adequate rest. You may continue elevating the limb for a few hours; ice-packs and NSAIDS may also be used for a symptomatic relief.
Hope this helps.

Take care!