Persistent Ankle Wound After Surgery
Hello everyone! Before diving in, I want to make it clear that I'm seeking personal experiences and advice rather than professional medical counsel. **Personal Background/Medical Details:** 19 years old, male, 6 feet tall, approximately 175 pounds, no medications, smoker, history of chronic lateral malleolus fracture on the right ankle (surgery conducted two years ago), healed trimalleolar fracture on the left ankle, ongoing issues with a wound on the right ankle, experiencing pain and delicate skin in that area, and required to wear work boots for my occupation. I am currently facing an ongoing wound issue on my right ankle that has persisted since my surgery roughly two years ago. Initially, I suffered a fracture on the outer side of my right ankle, whereas I had a trimalleolar fracture on my left that has since healed nicely. Unfortunately, the wound on my right ankle has remained problematic. At times, it develops a bubble filled with a gross yellowish fluid mixed with blood that I need to drain, and it tends to leak consistently. The skin around the wound is extremely fragile—in particular, after I shower, it becomes thin and susceptible to tearing. Initially, my doctors advised me to apply iodine to dry out the area followed by a bandage. However, removing the bandage tends to either rip off the skin or retain too much moisture, aggravating the situation. For my job, I am required to wear supportive work boots. However, any pressure or friction on the wound exacerbates the problem. I’ve contemplated creating DIY solutions, such as modifying insoles to cushion the area, but I'm concerned it might lead to infections or increase pressure on the wound. I’ve also discovered ankle sleeves with gel pads designed to cover the wound, and I'm curious if there’s a safe method to pair those with dressings that won’t damage the already delicate skin surrounding it. Has anyone experienced a persistent ankle wound like this? I would greatly appreciate any tips or strategies you’ve used to manage wearing boots or providing ankle support while ensuring safety and comfort. This situation has been ongoing for two years, and I’m eager for any advice that has worked for others in similar circumstances.
Answers (1)
8/17/2025, 7:31:11 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re dealing with a frustrating and painful situation with your ankle wound. Chronic wounds can be particularly challenging, especially in an area that requires support and is prone to pressure and friction. Here’s a structured approach to managing your situation while being mindful of your needs and concerns.
Main Points:
- Infection Risk & Wound Care: Focus on preventing infection while promoting healing.
- Cushioning & Protection: Find ways to protect the area while accommodating your work requirements.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Consider small adjustments that could improve comfort.
Explanation:
The ongoing wound healing issue on your right ankle, particularly with fluid buildup and fragile skin, suggests that you may be at risk for infection and delayed healing. Proper wound care is crucial in preventing complications and allowing the area to heal effectively. Additionally, wearing work boots that apply pressure or friction to the wound complicates your healing process.
Next Steps:
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Wound Care Protocol:
- Cleansing: Gently clean the area with saline or mild soap and water daily. Avoid iodine if it irritates.
- Moisture Control: Consider using hydrocolloid dressings, which can maintain a moist environment to promote healing while lowering infection risk. They're designed to absorb excess fluid while protecting the wound.
- Avoid Irritation: When changing dressings, consider using a non-adherent dressing over the wound to minimize trauma to the surrounding skin.
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Cushioning Solutions:
- Ankle Support: Look into gel pads or silicone-based protectors that can cushion the area without adding too much bulk. Make sure they don’t interact adversely with your dressings.
- Modify Footwear: Try using cushioned insoles or footbeds that relieve pressure on your ankle. Brands that specialize in orthopedic or diabetic footwear may offer more comfort.
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Monitor for Infection: Watch for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge. If you notice these, consider seeking prompt attention to prevent further complications.
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Lifestyle Adjustments:
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking can hinder healing; finding ways to reduce or quit may improve your overall health and wound recovery.
- Rest & Elevation: Whenever possible, rest your ankle and keep it elevated to reduce swelling and promote blood flow to the area.
Additional Considerations:
While personal experiences are valuable, it's essential to keep an open dialogue with healthcare professionals who can assess your wound and advise more customized care. If your situation does not improve or worsens, consider seeking a second opinion or a specialist in wound care.
I hope these tips help you manage your ankle wound more effectively and enhance your comfort as you return to work. Let me know if you need more information on any specific aspect!
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