What are the guidelines for follow-up and rehabilitation after an ankle fracture in primary care?

In primary care, follow-up and rehabilitation after an ankle fracture should include advising immediate unrestricted weight-bearing as tolerated for non-surgical unimalleolar ankle fractures. Orthopaedic follow-up should be arranged within 2 weeks if there is uncertainty about fracture stability. Patients should be advised to return for review if symptoms are not improving 6 weeks after injury. Providing both verbal and written information to patients about expected outcomes, activities to aid recovery, home care options, rehabilitation plans including contact details, and mobilisation and weight-bearing guidance is essential. Active patient participation in rehabilitation should be encouraged to achieve optimal recovery. Documentation of all key communications and ensuring consistent information sharing among healthcare providers is recommended to support ongoing care.