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Best Exercises After Ankle Fusion (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to maintain physical fitness after having had ankle fusion surgery, then exercises after ankle fusion might be a viable option. After surgery, it is important to keep the surrounding muscles and joints strong to prevent injury and maintain mobility. Factors to consider before beginning any exercise post ankle fusion include consulting with your doctor or physical therapist, understanding the level of intensity of the exercises, and gradually increasing the intensity over time.

Additionally, you may want to consider purchasing appropriate equipment or using aid devices such as crutches or braces to help with any discomfort or instability. It is important to listen to your body and take breaks whenever necessary. Start slowly with range of motion exercises such as ankle circles or toe curls and gradually progress to more intense exercises like leg presses or calf raises. Always remember to warm up and stretch well before exercising to prevent any injury.

Are you looking for exercises that can help with regaining mobility post ankle fusion? Does the thought of engaging in physical activity even post-surgery seem daunting? How can you stay fit post-surgery without injuring yourself? These are just a few of the questions that may be running through your mind. By incorporating exercises post ankle fusion surgery, you can improve your overall quality of life and maintain your physical fitness levels.

10 Best Exercises After Ankle Fusion

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for exercising while sitting at a desk or couch, improving circulation and burning calories.
2
The product is ideal for providing deep tissue massage to athletes and anyone seeking pain relief.
3
The product is ideal for indoor home workouts and total body strength training with various resistance levels and attachments.
4
The product is ideal for enhancing blood circulation, sports performance, and fast recovery.
5
This product is ideal for whole body workout and vibration fitness, and includes loop bands, remote, balance straps, videos, and manual.
6
This product is ideal for pain relief in the feet, ankles, and toes through red and infrared light therapy.
7
The product is ideal for full-body workouts at all levels, both indoors and outdoors, with lightweight and portable equipment.
8
The product is ideal for those looking for a high-tech strength training machine with personalized coaching and tracking features.
9
This ankle brace is ideal for stabilizing and supporting medial and lateral sides of the ankle, helping to repair torn ligaments.
10
The product is ideal for resistance training, physical therapy, home workouts, and comes with a variety of accessories.
The product is ideal for exercising while sitting at a desk or couch, improving circulation and burning calories.
The product is ideal for providing deep tissue massage to athletes and anyone seeking pain relief.
The product is ideal for indoor home workouts and total body strength training with various resistance levels and attachments.
The product is ideal for enhancing blood circulation, sports performance, and fast recovery.
This product is ideal for whole body workout and vibration fitness, and includes loop bands, remote, balance straps, videos, and manual.
This product is ideal for pain relief in the feet, ankles, and toes through red and infrared light therapy.
The product is ideal for full-body workouts at all levels, both indoors and outdoors, with lightweight and portable equipment.
The product is ideal for those looking for a high-tech strength training machine with personalized coaching and tracking features.
This ankle brace is ideal for stabilizing and supporting medial and lateral sides of the ankle, helping to repair torn ligaments.
The product is ideal for resistance training, physical therapy, home workouts, and comes with a variety of accessories.

1. Sunny Health & Fitness Fully Assembled Magnetic Under Desk Elliptical Peddler – Sf-E3872

The Digital Monitor on this elliptical is conveniently located to track time, speed, calories burned, and distance. You can also choose the scan function to scroll through all variables while working out. It makes tracking your progress a breeze.

The Belt Drive Magnetic Resistance system is a great feature that makes for a low maintenance, smooth, and quiet exercise experience. You won't have to worry about any loud noises that could disrupt your workout, and you'll be able to focus on your exercises with ease.

Choose between 8 Levels of Resistance with the tension knob to increase the intensity of your workout as you build your muscular endurance. It's perfect for people of all fitness levels who want to challenge themselves and work towards their fitness goals.

The compact size of this elliptical makes it easy to store, and it can fit under most desks or around your favorite chairs. You'll have the freedom to exercise while sitting in different environments, making it perfect for home and office use.

Transporting the elliptical is a breeze thanks to the centrally located transportation handles. You can move it with ease and store it away when you're not using it.

Included Components: Elliptical, User Manual

Pros

  • Conveniently located Digital Monitor to track your progress
  • Low maintenance Belt Drive Magnetic Resistance system
  • 8 Levels of Resistance to challenge yourself
  • Compact size for easy storage and use in different environments
  • Transportation handles for easy mobility

2. Pain Relief Pro: Portable Athlete's Massage Gun.

The Upgraded Massage Gun is a powerful handheld percussion massager gun that effectively relieves muscle fatigue and pain. It promotes blood circulation, helps to relieve lactic acid, and provides a comfortable experience that helps restore the body to its best state.

This silent deep tissue massage gun offers 7 speed levels, with up to 3200rpm. The speed levels button allows users to easily find the most suitable vibration amplitude for their needs. Moreover, the working dB is only about 40dB-50dB, providing users with high power and low noise massage at home, gym, or office.

Equipped with 15 replaceable massage heads, this muscle massage gun is great for relaxing all parts of the body. It is also easy to disassemble and clean, making it very suitable for back massage, neck, arm, leg, and muscle massage. Its handheld design ensures that it can be used for targeted massage in specific areas of the body.

This percussion massager gun comes with a USB charging cable, which means that it can be easily charged anywhere, and can work for up to 6 hours. Its ergonomic design makes it easy to hold and use, while its lightweight design, carrying case, and user manual make it easy to store and transport.

Overall, the Upgraded Massage Gun is a versatile and powerful device that provides a comfortable and effective massage experience. It is an ideal gift for family, lovers, and friends, especially during special occasions such as Mother's Day and Father's Day.

Pros

  • Effective in relieving muscle fatigue and pain
  • Promotes blood circulation and relieves lactic acid
  • Silent with 7 speed levels up to 3200rpm
  • Equipped with 15 replaceable massage heads
  • Easy to disassemble and clean
  • Comes with a USB charging cable and works for up to 6 hours
  • Ergonomic design makes it easy to hold and use
  • Lightweight and portable with carrying case and user manual

3. Total Body Strength Training With 8 Resistance Levels

The Total Gym home gym provides a variety of workouts with its 8 levels of resistance and 70+ exercises. It offers low-impact, fluid movements, allowing for effortless transition from one exercise to another. Even 15 to 20 minutes a day, 3 to 4 days a week on this gym equipment can make a significant difference. It is perfect for individuals of all fitness levels, ranging from ages 8 to 80, and can support a maximum weight of 300 pounds.

This gym equipment is designed to provide a total body workout experience by toning, strengthening, and conditioning muscles in both upper and lower body. It can assist with body sculpting, weight loss, health maintenance, and energy among other things. The package comes with accessories like wing attachment, squat stand, leg pull accessory, dip bars, exercise flip chart, Total Gym TV access, exercise & nutrition guides, owner’s manual, and DVD. The glide board is padded and ergonomic, while the steel frame has an auto-lock height adjustment feature. Additionally, it folds easily for storage, and when in use, it measures 93-inches in length, 43.25-inches tall, and 15.5-inches wide. The product comes with a 1-year warranty.

Pros

  • Provides a variety of workouts with 8 levels of resistance and 70+ exercises
  • Low-impact, fluid movements allow for effortless transition from one exercise to another
  • Even 15 to 20 minutes a day, 3 to 4 days a week can make a significant difference
  • Perfect for individuals of all fitness levels, ranging from ages 8 to 80, and can support a maximum weight of 300 pounds
  • Designed to provide a total body workout experience by toning, strengthening, and conditioning muscles in both upper and lower body
  • Assists with body sculpting, weight loss, health maintenance, and energy among other things
  • Comes with accessories like wing attachment, squat stand, leg pull accessory, dip bars, exercise flip chart, Total Gym TV access, exercise & nutrition guides, owner’s manual, and DVD
  • The glide board is padded and ergonomic, while the steel frame has an auto-lock height adjustment feature
  • Folds easily for storage
  • Comes with a 1-year warranty

4. Revivesport Air Leg Massager – Fsa/hsa Approved!

The Full Leg Compression Massage Boots are designed to provide a personal massage experience that can help you relax and recover faster. They increase blood circulation and help blood flow back from the distal to the proximal faster, relieving muscle fatigue and enhancing sports performance. These boots are recommended for athletes, gym-goers, or other sports enthusiasts.

The upgraded version of these boots features 4 large airbag chambers that can wrap your full leg well. Inflating through 4 independent air channels provides dynamic pressure to your feet, calves, knees, and thighs. The large-capacity air pump makes inflating and deflating faster and with lower noise. The smart sensor system precisely controls the pressure and adjusts the inflation volume according to the different sizes of legs, which can provide you with the most suitable and safe air pressure.

These air compression recovery systems are operated by an LCD digital control unit, featuring 3 massage modes, 8 pressure intensities, and 3 optional times for selection. The control unit with a moderate size and low noise can be placed on the table or held in the hand. Compared to the old Velcro fixation version, the Zipper design makes it easier to put on and take off. The high-quality fabric is more durable and easy to clean and maintain.

Pros

  • Increases blood circulation and helps blood flow back faster
  • Relaxes full leg muscles like a personal massage therapist
  • Helps for fast recovery and enhances sports performance
  • Smart sensor system adjusts the inflation volume according to different leg sizes
  • Easy-to-use LCD digital control unit with multiple options
  • Zipper design makes it easier to put on and take off
  • High-quality and durable fabric

Cons

  • – May not fit all leg sizes perfectly

5. Whole Body Vibration Platform With Accessories

Achieve your dream body with the Waver body vibration machine. This exercise machine creates full-body vibrations that lead to muscle contraction and activation. It helps improve muscle strength, metabolism, circulation, and bone density. It also reduces joint stress, making it a great exercise tool for people with arthritis or other joint issues. The package includes yoga straps and resistance bands that you can use to enhance your workout experience.

The Waver body vibration machine allows you to switch between speed settings from 1 to 99, giving you the freedom to customize your workout according to your fitness level. The machine comes with wheels, a remote, and an easy-to-read display, making it convenient to use anytime, anywhere. You can even watch your progress on the display screen.

As a special bonus, the Waver body vibration machine comes with an extensive, user-friendly manual that will guide you through your fitness journey. You also get live support and instant access to free professional online workout videos, making it easy to get started with your new exercise routine.

Invest in the Waver body vibration machine and take the first step towards a healthier, fitter you!

Pros

  • Improves muscle strength, metabolism, circulation, and bone density
  • Reduces joint stress
  • Comes with yoga straps and resistance bands for enhanced workout experience
  • Customizable speed settings from 1 to 99
  • Wheels, remote, and easy-to-read display for convenience
  • Includes extensive, user-friendly manual and live support
  • Instant access to free professional online workout videos

6. Revivefeet: Infrared & Red Light Therapy Shoe

This red light therapy shoe is designed to provide relief from muscle pain, arthritis, and cold feet caused by low blood circulation. The device has 158 LEDs embedded in it, with each LED having one Red (660nm) and two Infrared (850 nm) chips. This means that the device has a total of 158 red and 316 invisible infrared lights that can effectively increase blood circulation, relax and warm the foot, and relieve chronic pain.

The device has six different treatment modes that can accommodate different needs. These include 660nm red light & 850nm infrared light, 850nm infrared light, 660nm red light, Pulse with 660nm & 850nm, Pulse with 850nm, and Pulse with 660nm. Red & infrared light therapy provides safe, concentrated wavelengths to your foot and cells without any side effects or major health risks. The device is safe for all skin types and can be used multiple times per day.

The device comes with an auto shut-off feature that turns off the device after 30 minutes. Users can set the timer to 10, 20, or 30 minutes, but it is recommended not to exceed 30 minutes of use in one therapy session. The device also has three heating settings with 39℃±2℃, 43℃±2℃, and 47℃±2℃, which can enhance the effect of the therapy. The device can be powered by a socket or DC 12V device, and it has a long power cord that makes it convenient to use anywhere in the home.

The shoe is designed to fit most people, and it is large enough to wrap the whole foot and ankle for better treatment effect. The shoe measures 13.78''×8.66'' and can support up to US 14 feet. The three Velcro straps can also control the tightness of the shoe. The device is lightweight and convenient to carry, making it ideal for use when traveling. The product also comes with a 1-year warranty, which guarantees its quality and effectiveness.

Pros

  • Provides relief from muscle pain, arthritis, and cold feet caused by low blood circulation
  • Increases blood circulation, relaxes and warms the foot, and relieves chronic pain
  • Has six different treatment modes that can accommodate different needs
  • Red & infrared light therapy provides safe, concentrated wavelengths without side effects or major health risks
  • Auto shut-off feature turns off the device after 30 minutes
  • Three heating settings enhance the effect of the therapy
  • Designed to fit most people and is large enough to wrap the whole foot and ankle
  • Lightweight and convenient to carry, making it ideal for use when traveling
  • Comes with a 1-year warranty

Cons

  • – Users should not exceed 30 minutes of use in one therapy session

7. Trx Go: Fit Anywhere, Full-Body Fun

The TRX suspension training system is a versatile and portable gym that can be used both indoors and outdoors. The package includes a TRX GO rope for suspension training, indoor and outdoor anchors, a mesh carrying bag, and access to the TRX training club app. The carabiner is safety tested for up to 700 lbs and has locking loops to prevent slipping. Additionally, the TRX Go comes with adjusters to quickly change length during your workout, durable foam handles for comfort, and foot cradles to amp up any routine.

The TRX Go is a total-body training system that can help you burn fat, build muscle, and increase mobility. It is a perfect gift for those beginning their fitness journey or for busy parents and professionals who need a workout solution that fits into their schedule. As seen in Women's Health, the TRX Go is a go-to solution for fitness enthusiasts.

Moreover, the TRX Go Suspension Training System is a portable gym that weighs less than a pound and can be assembled in under a minute. It can easily anchor to a door, and comes with everything you need to train whether you're outside, indoors, or on a trip. You can also get a 30-day free trial to the TRX Training Club, where you can get unlimited access to 500+ on-demand workout videos, with new workouts added weekly, and daily LIVE classes from world-class trainers. To get your 30 Days on us, just register your Suspension Trainer.

Pros

  • Versatile and portable
  • Safety tested for up to 700 lbs
  • Durable foam handles for comfortCan be assembled in under a minute

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for those who prefer heavy weight training

8. Nordictrack Fusion Cst Includes 1-Year Ifit Membership

Achieve your fitness goals with the NordicTrack Fusion CST, a powerful workout machine that comes with a 12-month iFit family membership. With this membership, you can access live, studio, and global workouts, and create up to 5 individual exercise profiles. The included 10” HD Portal 10i Tablet allows you to stream immersive trainer-led workouts directly to your device. The iFit Trainers will auto-adjust your resistance for an optimized workout in your home, making it easier for you to stay focused on your form and movement.

The NordicTrack Fusion CST features 6 smooth cable stations, each with removable ergonomic handles and 2 ankle strap accessories. You can train your lower body with high-powered exercise and enjoy a quiet workout thanks to the SMR Silent Magnetic Resistance. With up to 100-pounds of total resistance, this machine is built to last and is protected with a 10-year frame warranty, a 12-month parts and labor warranty, and a 12-month tablet warranty. With dimensions of 73.5” H x 60.5” W x 41.5” L, this workout machine is perfect for your home gym.

Pros

  • Includes 12-month iFit family membership for access to live, studio, and global workouts
  • Comes with a 10” HD Portal 10i Tablet for streaming trainer-led workouts
  • Features automatic trainer control, allowing for optimized workouts
  • Includes 6 smooth cable stations and 2 ankle strap accessories for lower body training
  • SMR Silent Magnetic Resistance ensures a quiet workout
  • Up to 100-pounds of total resistance
  • Protected by a 10-year frame warranty, a 12-month parts and labor warranty, and a 12-month tablet warranty

Cons

  • – May be expensive for some customers
  • – Requires a monthly subscription for continued access to iFit family membership

9. Bauerfeind Stabilizing Ankle Brace – Size 3

The Effective Ankle Stabilization and Pain Relief Orthosis is an excellent tool to stabilize the ankle during the day and night. It features a plastic splint that extends over the base of the fifth metatarsal bone, attached to the foot with several straps, providing partial immobilization of the ankle. The anatomically contoured, thin, and lightweight design ensures maximum comfort and convenience, with or without a shoe.

The orthosis has a special design for comfort and use, with anatomically contoured velour straps that make it easy to put on. The flat fastenings fasten securely and do not slip upward. Additionally, the soft, anatomically contoured pad covers the lateral side of the ankle while the straps and splints secure the upper and lower ankle joint regardless of footwear.

To ensure correct sizing, all sizing is based on the shoe size. Refer to the sizing chart and video for correct sizing. The cut-out in the lateral malleolus area allows for the removal of the pad in case of severe swelling. The integrated pronation wedge raises the hindfoot and relieves lateral ligaments, while the four adjustable Velcro straps provide easy application and proper fit.

This orthosis is used to help treat and prevent ankle ligament tear (conservative treatment), after ligamental suturing/reconstruction (post-operative), sinus tarsi syndrome (post-traumatic), instability of the subtalar joint, instability of the upper and/or lower ankle joint, instability (chronic), and other ankle pain symptoms.

Pros

  • Provides effective ankle stabilization and pain relief
  • Anatomically contoured, thin, and lightweight design ensures maximum comfort and convenience
  • Special design for comfort and use with flat fastenings that fasten securely and do not slip upward
  • Soft, anatomically contoured pad covers the lateral side of the ankle
  • Four adjustable Velcro straps provide easy application and proper fit

Cons

  • – May not provide enough immobilization for severe ankle injuries

10. Fitband Set With Door Anchor And Carry Bag.

The Whatafit Resistance Bands Set offers a versatile and portable workout option for individuals looking to tone their arms, shoulders, chest, glutes, legs, and more. Each set includes five adjustable resistance bands in different colors, including yellow (10 lbs), blue (20 lbs), green (30 lbs), black (40 lbs), and red (50 lbs), providing a maximum equivalent resistance of 150 lbs when stacked or used alone. The bands are made of natural latex, which is both environmentally friendly and durable, offering strong wear resistance and elasticity. The non-slip handles are designed for comfortable and absorbent grip, and the set also includes a door anchor, two cushioned handles, a carrying case, and a user manual for easy use at home or on-the-go. These exercise bands are constructed to resist snapping and breaking, ensuring they can withstand intense daily exercise sessions.

Whether you're a beginner or a fitness enthusiast, the Whatafit Resistance Bands Set is a great addition to your routine. The bands can be used for a wide range of exercises, making them suitable for daily use. They offer a personal home gym experience, allowing individuals to perform resistance training exercises at home or on-the-go. The set's compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry in the included travel pouch, so you can take your bands to the gym, office, or anywhere else you choose. With the Whatafit Resistance Bands Set, you can enjoy a challenging and effective workout that targets every major muscle group.

Pros

  • Adjustable resistance bands with five different colors for a maximum equivalent resistance of 150 lbs
  • Made of natural latex, which is both environmentally friendly and durable
  • Non-slip handles designed for comfortable and absorbent grip
  • Includes a door anchor, two cushioned handles, a carrying case, and a user manual for easy use
  • Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry in the included travel pouch

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for individuals who prefer traditional weightlifting equipment
  • – Limited resistance range compared to traditional weightlifting equipment

Best Exercises After Ankle Fusion FAQs

Are there any specific stretches I should do to help with ankle fusion recovery?

Yes, there are specific stretches that you can do to help with ankle fusion recovery. It is essential to remember that ankle fusion surgery is a significant procedure, and recovery can take time. The recovery process varies from person to person, and it is critical to work closely with your doctor or physical therapist to develop an exercise program that is safe and effective for you.

Some of the stretches that can help with ankle fusion recovery include calf stretches, ankle circles, and toe curls. Calf stretches can help improve ankle flexibility and reduce stiffness. Ankle circles can help improve range of motion, while toe curls can help strengthen the muscles in the foot and ankle.

It is also essential to perform exercises that strengthen the muscles around the ankle joint. These exercises can help improve stability, balance, and flexibility. Examples of such exercises include heel raises, ankle pumps, and towel scrunches.

It is crucial to start with gentle stretches and exercises and gradually increase intensity as your ankle heals. Always listen to your body, and if you experience pain or discomfort while performing any exercise, stop immediately and consult with your doctor or physical therapist.

Can physical therapy help with exercises after ankle fusion surgery?

Yes, physical therapy can definitely help with exercises after ankle fusion surgery. Ankle fusion surgery is a procedure that is performed to treat severe ankle arthritis or pain. After the surgery, the ankle joint may become stiff and the surrounding muscles may weaken due to inactivity, which can lead to difficulty in walking and performing daily activities.

Physical therapy can help in restoring the ankle’s range of motion, strength, and function. A physical therapist can design a customized exercise program that includes stretching, strengthening, and balance exercises to improve the mobility and stability of the ankle joint. They can also provide manual therapy techniques such as massage and joint mobilization to reduce pain and stiffness.

Moreover, physical therapy can help in preventing future ankle injuries by teaching proper body mechanics and providing guidance on the use of assistive devices such as crutches or braces. Therefore, physical therapy is an essential part of the recovery process after ankle fusion surgery and can significantly improve the patient’s quality of life.

How soon after ankle fusion surgery can I start doing exercises?

After undergoing ankle fusion surgery, it is important to give your body ample time to heal before starting any exercises. The exact timeline for starting exercises can vary depending on your individual case and the recommendations of your doctor or physical therapist.

Typically, patients are advised to avoid putting weight on the affected ankle for the first six to eight weeks following surgery. During this time, you may be instructed to use crutches or a walker to help you get around. Once the initial healing period has passed, your doctor or physical therapist may start you on a gentle exercise program to help build strength and flexibility in the ankle joint.

Some common exercises that may be recommended include range-of-motion exercises, stretching, and light resistance training. It is important to follow your doctor's recommendations and progress slowly to avoid injuring yourself or causing any further damage to the ankle joint. Always listen to your body and stop any exercises if you experience pain or discomfort.

What are some common challenges or limitations when doing exercises after ankle fusion surgery?

After ankle fusion surgery, patients may experience various challenges and limitations when it comes to exercising. One of the most common challenges is pain and stiffness in the affected ankle, which can make it difficult to move and exercise comfortably. This can also lead to muscle weakness and reduced range of motion in the ankle joint.

Another limitation is the need to avoid high-impact exercises, such as running and jumping, which can put too much stress on the fused ankle joint and lead to further damage. Instead, patients are advised to focus on low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling or using an elliptical machine.

Furthermore, patients may need to use assistive devices such as crutches or a walker, especially during the initial stages of recovery. They may also need to work closely with a physiotherapist to develop a safe and effective exercise program that takes into account their individual limitations and goals.

Finally, it's important for patients to be patient and not rush their recovery process. It can take several months or even a year for the fused ankle joint to fully heal, and pushing too hard or too soon can lead to setbacks and complications.

What types of exercises are recommended after ankle fusion surgery?

After ankle fusion surgery, it is important to engage in exercises that promote flexibility, strength, and balance. The specific exercises recommended will depend on the individual's level of mobility and the extent of their surgery.

Initially, patients may be advised to perform gentle range of motion exercises, such as ankle circles, to prevent stiffness and improve circulation. As healing progresses, more challenging exercises may be added to the regimen, such as calf raises and ankle stretches.

Physical therapy sessions may also be recommended to aid in recovery and improve outcomes. These sessions may include exercises to improve balance and coordination, as well as modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation.

It is important to follow the guidance of a healthcare professional or physical therapist when starting an exercise program after ankle fusion surgery. Overdoing it or engaging in inappropriate exercises can lead to re-injury or prolonged recovery.

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