i. Brace for stable non-displaced ankle fractures

Cast + Short Rigid Walker Boot（A16b）+ Crutches

Traditional Treatment Method (Cast Immobilization)

Immobilizing the affected area with a cast provides strong stabilization, helping to secure the fracture site and promote healing. Therefore, the typical recovery (immobilization) time is about 3 weeks. However, if the cast is not applied or managed properly, displacement may still occur.

For acute, stable, and non-displaced fractures, surgical treatment is generally not required. The area can first be immobilized with a cast for about 3 weeks, during which regular X-ray check-ups are needed to ensure the bone hasn't shifted.

After completing the first 3 weeks, you can switch to a short walker boot (A16b) for another 3 weeks of immobilization. You should continue using crutches to avoid putting weight on the injured ankle, ensuring the fracture heals stably.

Option 2: Long Rigid Walker boot（A17）+ Short Rigid Walker boot（A16b）

Brace Treatment

Braces provide less rigid immobilization than a traditional cast, which means the overall recovery time may be relatively longer.

However, if there is an open wound at the fracture site, a brace is much more convenient because it can be removed for cleaning, making it much easier to maintain hygiene and care for the wound.

If a patient prefers not to use a traditional cast, they can opt for a Long Rigid Walker Boot (A17) for about 3 weeks. Regular X-ray check-ups are still required during this period to ensure the bone has not displaced. Crutches must be used simultaneously to avoid putting weight on the injured ankle.

After the initial 3 weeks, the patient can switch to a short walker boot (A16b) for another 3 weeks of immobilization. Crutches should continue to be used to keep weight off the injured ankle and ensure the fracture heals stably.

ii. Brace for unstable displaced ankle fractures: Surgery and Post-op care

When a patient presents with an unstable or displaced ankle fracture, surgical reduction is required, using screws and metal plates for internal fixation.

Post-operative X-rays are also necessary to ensure that the alignment and reduction are successful. For the first 6 weeks after surgery, a short walking boot (A16b) should be worn along with crutches. This protects the surgical wound, immobilizes the ankle, and alleviates pain caused by weight-bearing or leg movement. During this period, using crutches to practice progressive weight-bearing rehabilitation is the safest approach to regaining function.