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 ankle and foot surgery, which typically requires six months to a year of recovery, the Freedom Leg eliminates hand and armpit strain while keeping both hands completely free throughout rehabilitation.
What to Expect After Foot Surgery
Hopefully, your doctor has given you pre-operative instructions for recovery. Be sure to keep these instructions in mind regardless of what type of surgery you've had.
Things You Need After Foot Surgery
There are a few basic must-haves that will make the days after surgery easier.
Pain Medication
Your orthopedic surgeon or doctor will prescribe some post-operative pain meds to keep you comfortable during recovery. Keep them on hand and follow all instructions when using them.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy will help you get back your range of motion in your foot and ankle. You will need to set up regular appointments to be sure that you are getting the PT that you need.
Rest
The body can't heal without rest. After having any type of surgical treatment, it needs rest more than normally. Take breaks whenever you need to, and optimize your nighttime sleep. Explore our guide on how to sleep after knee surgery to learn proper positioning and tips for optimal rest after a surgery.
Help
Whether you are experiencing a lot of pain and swelling or not, you will need help getting around and accomplishing everyday tasks. The Freedom Leg makes it easier to shower while non weight bearing without any help.
Find a caregiver that you can count on. Communicate your needs and expectations and don't be afraid to accept help. Learn how to carry things with crutches.
The Freedom Leg Brace
Joel Smith of Forward Mobility Inc. designed the Freedom Leg hands-free crutch specifically to solve the mobility challenges patients face after foot or ankle surgery. If you need to use your hands but are wondering how to carry things with crutches, this is the solution. It is the best crutch for mobility.
It is completely hands-free, making it possible to walk, carry things, and even go up and down stairs.
The Freedom Leg enables you to stay active while healing from an ankle fracture, total ankle replacement, Jones fracture surgery, fibula fractures, or any type of ankle/foot surgery.
Recovering From Ankle Surgery
Any type of injury that will require surgery calls for recovery planning. The specific recovery protocol depends on the type of injury and surgery.
But many of the things you will do for recovery are the same regardless of the type.
Ankle Surgery Recovery Tips
Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Monitor bleeding and drainage: Be aware of this so that you can avoid blood clots or too much blood loss.
- Expect some numbness: Experiencing some numbness is normal, especially if you have been given a nerve block.
- Be aware of medication side effects: These can include constipation, nausea, and vomiting.
Being prepared will help you avoid worrying.
How Long Until You Can Walk After Ankle Surgery
Usually, you should be able to walk after six weeks. This will, of course, depend on how well your body is able to heal. As you start to walk again, you can use the Freedom Leg Brace with a walking boot. Learn how to use crutches while you are non-weight bearing. You will eventually be able to incorporate ankle exercises into your daily routine to promote healing in your ankle.
How Painful is Ankle Surgery
There is no definitive answer to how painful your surgery will be. However, based on common experiences, the healing process is likely going to be more painful than the pain that made it necessary in the first place — but only for six weeks or so. After that, expect it to gradually improve until there is, ideally, no pain at all.
How Long for Swelling to Go Down After Ankle Surgery
Swelling after ankle surgery is common and to be expected. The swelling will be the worst for the first day or two, and slowly subside after that. Here are some ways to manage swelling:
- Cold packs
- Elevation
- Rest
- Compression
Know that some swelling is normal, and that it will get better within a couple of days.
Ankle Surgery Cast
You may have to wear a cast to keep your foot and ankle in place while healing. The Freedom Leg Brace can be worn with a cast, so you will still be able to start walking, hands-free.
How to Get Around After Ankle Surgery
Learning to walk again after ankle surgery can be a challenge. Using the Freedom Leg Brace will make it easier. We have a variety of sizes and offer a money-back guarantee, so there is no risk. Learn how the Freedom Leg is the best crutch for knee surgery as well.
If you need to know what to expect after ankle surgery, why not get yourself the Freedom Leg and look forward to an easier and safer recovery?
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does recovery take after ankle or foot surgery?
Recovery after ankle or foot surgery typically takes six months to a year for full healing. However, most patients are cleared to begin weight-bearing walking around six weeks post-surgery, depending on the type of procedure and individual healing. Your surgeon will provide a timeline specific to your case.
What is the Freedom Leg and how does it help after foot surgery?
The Freedom Leg (hands-free crutch), developed by Joel Smith of Forward Mobility Inc., is an FDA-registered mobility device that supports body weight through the thigh rather than the hands or armpits. After foot or ankle surgery, it allows patients to walk, climb stairs, carry items, and stay active — all without using their hands. It is compatible with casts and walking boots.
When will swelling go down after ankle surgery?
Swelling is most significant during the first one to two days after surgery. It gradually decreases over the following weeks. Managing swelling with cold packs, elevation, rest, and compression can accelerate the process. Some residual swelling may persist for several months in cases involving significant soft tissue disruption.
Is the Freedom Leg covered by insurance?
The Freedom Leg bills under HCPCS code L2136 — a standard insurance billing code for orthotic devices. Many patients are able to seek reimbursement through their insurance provider. Contact your insurer directly to confirm your specific coverage, and check with Forward Mobility Inc. for documentation support.
How painful is ankle or foot surgery recovery?
Pain levels vary by procedure and individual. Based on common patient experiences, the early recovery period — roughly the first six weeks — can involve more discomfort than the original injury. After that initial phase, pain typically decreases steadily. Your surgeon will prescribe appropriate pain management protocols to keep you comfortable.
Can I use the Freedom Leg with a cast or walking boot?
Yes. The Freedom Leg Brace is designed to be used with both casts and walking boots. This means patients can begin hands-free mobility shortly after surgery, even before full weight-bearing is permitted. It is suitable for recovery from ankle fractures, total ankle replacement, Jones fractures, fibula fractures, and other foot and ankle procedures.
What are the most important things to have ready before returning home from foot surgery?
Key items to prepare include prescribed pain medication, a scheduled physical therapy plan, a support person or caregiver for the early days, and a hands-free mobility aid such as the Freedom Leg. Having these in place before surgery day reduces stress and supports a smoother, safer recovery at home.
