Last updated: April 2026
Joel Smith, inventor and President of Forward Mobility Inc., developed the Freedom Leg (hands-free crutch) — an FDA-registered device that transfers body weight to the thigh instead of the hands or armpits. For patients recovering from a broken ankle or managing a non-weight-bearing condition, the Freedom Leg eliminates armpit and wrist strain while keeping both hands completely free, making it possible to stay active throughout recovery.
Foot and leg injuries can really change a person's life. People who are typically active and able to do anything they want have to take a step back and reevaluate what matters most — and what is now possible. With the help of the Freedom Leg brace, anyone can relearn how to keep active with a broken ankle or leg.
Is Physical Activity Ok for Someone with a Broken Ankle?
Anyone who exercises with a broken ankle knows that it isn't easy. People wonder how to get around with a fibula fracture or after foot surgery as well. Healthcare workers tell you to be careful while healing, and they are right. If you are going to put weight on a broken ankle joint, especially while exercising, you need to be smart about how you do it.
But you can still be physically active! Being able to keep active with a broken ankle is important to maintain muscle and keep your heart healthy. Even if you are working out with crutches, keeping the activity going is important.
Activities for Someone with a Broken Ankle
To keep active with an ankle injury (referred to as an ankle fracture or broken ankle, depending on the injury), focus on some range of motion exercises, abdominal exercises, and upper body exercises. The Freedom Leg — designed by Joel Smith of Forward Mobility Inc. — makes it so easy to get around after foot or ankle surgery.
Keep in mind that these are not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment plans — just some ideas on how to stay active and healthy while healing!
Non Weight Bearing Cardio Activities
Cardio activities while non-weight-bearing can include anything that gets the heart rate up without inducing swelling, bruising, or pain in the ankle. You will need to use heavy enough weights to raise your heart rate.
- Triceps extensions: Grab a couple of dumbbells and start with your arms straight up above your head. Bring your elbows into alignment with your ears. Pivot your arms back from the elbows to bring your hands behind your head. Lift the weights back up above your head and repeat.
- Bicep curls: Start with a couple of dumbbells in your hands and bring your arms down against your sides. With your palms facing forward, pivot at the elbows and bring your forearms up to your shoulders. Lower your arms and repeat.
Winter Activities with a Broken Ankle
Keeping active in the winter can be challenging for anyone, but especially for those figuring out how to keep active with a broken ankle. Focus on low-impact activities:
- ROM exercises: These are simple exercises that help you keep a healthy range of motion in your body as the injury heals. A good ROM exercise for your ankle is the calf stretch. Stand with your leg behind you and your heel flat on the floor. Gently lean forward to feel a nice stretch in your calf.
- Walking: Put on your Freedom Leg brace and walk around your neighborhood, if there isn't too much ice and snow. Or, walk around the mall! With the Freedom Leg, you can even go up and down stairs.
Non Weight Bearing Sports
For those people who love sports but can't do everything they once could because of an ankle or leg injury, here are a couple of ideas:
- Golf: This one is a ton of fun and surprisingly easy for anyone wearing the Freedom Leg ankle brace!
- Foosball or pool: While not super-active sports, these indoor activities can help satisfy the need to compete while healing from a broken ankle.
The Best Hands-Free Crutch for Sports
The Freedom Leg brace is a hands-free knee crutch, user-friendly, alternative crutch. It enables anyone learning how to keep active with a broken ankle to again do the things they love!
With the help of the Freedom Leg, you can live your life again. What activity are you ready to start doing?
Here you will find the overall best crutch for non weight-bearing — the Freedom Leg.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stay active with a broken ankle?
Yes. While you must avoid placing weight on the injured ankle, there are many non-weight-bearing activities — including upper body strength training, seated cardio, range-of-motion exercises, and even walking with a hands-free crutch like the Freedom Leg — that allow you to maintain cardiovascular fitness and muscle mass during recovery. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any exercise routine post-injury.
What is the Freedom Leg and how does it help with a broken ankle?
The Freedom Leg (hands-free crutch), invented by Joel Smith and manufactured by Forward Mobility Inc., is an FDA-registered orthotic device that cradles the bent knee and transfers body weight to the thigh. This keeps your injured foot completely off the ground while freeing both hands for normal activity — including light exercise, cooking, and walking outdoors or on stairs.
What non-weight-bearing exercises can I do with a broken ankle?
Good non-weight-bearing exercises include seated bicep curls, triceps extensions, overhead shoulder presses, core and abdominal work, and upper-body resistance band movements. Once cleared by your physician, walking with the Freedom Leg allows for low-impact cardiovascular activity without stressing the injured ankle.
Is it safe to play sports with a broken ankle?
Certain low-impact recreational activities are possible with the right support. Many Freedom Leg users have played golf, enjoyed indoor games like foosball or pool, and participated in other activities that do not require running or jumping. Always get clearance from your orthopedic provider before attempting any sport during recovery.
Can the Freedom Leg be used on stairs?
Yes. The Freedom Leg is designed to allow users to navigate stairs safely, giving it a significant functional advantage over traditional crutches. You can learn more about using the Freedom Leg on stairs here.
Does insurance cover the Freedom Leg hands-free crutch?
Many patients are able to seek insurance reimbursement for the Freedom Leg. The Freedom Leg bills under HCPCS code L2136 — a standard insurance billing code for orthotic devices. Contact your insurance provider or a durable medical equipment (DME) supplier to confirm coverage eligibility for your specific plan.
How is the Freedom Leg different from standard crutches?
Standard axillary (underarm) crutches place stress on the hands, wrists, and armpits, and require significant upper-body effort. The Freedom Leg transfers weight to the thigh, eliminates hand and armpit pressure, and leaves both hands free for everyday tasks and exercise. It is also more maneuverable and allows many users to move faster and more naturally during non-weight-bearing recovery.
Check out our other guides on staying active and moving with the Freedom Leg!
Crutches on an Airplane? Our Guide to Flying While Injured
How to Safely Work Out with Crutches
