Week 1
Protect, reduce pain and swelling
- Non-weight-bearing with crutches in a CAM boot
- Avoid stretching into dorsiflexion; rest and elevate
- Gentle active ankle ROM; day 4 begin isometrics (toe crunches)
Week 2
Restore ROM, progress weight bearing
- Partial weight-bearing in CAM boot (pain-limited)
- Core and non-weight-bearing lower-limb strengthening
- Optional BFR
Weeks 2–4
Restore mechanics and tolerance
- Week 3: weight-bear as tolerated in boot, crutches as needed
- Gentle ankle dorsiflexion stretching; isometric ankle strengthening
- Non-impact aerobic exercise
Do not use NSAIDs (ibuprofen, Aleve, aspirin) or ice for 4 weeks — both blunt the healing response. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is fine for discomfort. Care is tailored to you; use these guidelines with your physical therapist.