[Experiences in the after treatment of surgically treated ligament rupture of the ankle joint using a special shoe].

Early surgical reconstruction of lesions of ankle joint ligaments is generally accepted and yields best functional results. The wearing of a cast for 6-7 weeks limits movement to a greater extent than required for ligament healing. Functional physiotherapy and the use of a special shoe results in healing equal to that obtained with casts, but without the disadvantages of prolonged wearing of a cast. The high laced, laterally reinforced shoe permits physiotherapy and limited movement. The disadvantages of complete immobilization and trophic changes are avoided, while the ligament can be mobilized without undue strain. Extreme movements such as supination, adduction and maximal extension and flexion are prevented as effectively as with a cast. The time during which the patient is unable to work is reduced for most vocations, which also reduces insurance costs. This postoperative physiotherapy of a selected, active patient group is an effective alternative to conventional cast immobilization.