Alternative Therapies to Improve Healing

Beyond the Mainstream

Recovering from an ankle fracture can be a long and sometimes frustrating process. While traditional care—such as casts, braces, and physical therapy—remains the foundation of healing, many patients look into alternative therapies that may help speed recovery, reduce pain, or improve mobility. From hyperbaric oxygen therapy to PEMF therapy, here’s a look at some of the most talked-about options.

Personal take: Many new technologies which may help you heal faster and better exist. The downside is some of them are of questionable value, and insurance almost certainly won’t cover them.

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your surgeon or healthcare provider before beginning any new therapy. Please note that many alternative treatments may not be covered by insurance.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

Hyperbaric therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This increases the amount of oxygen in the blood, which may accelerate wound healing, reduce swelling, and fight infection. Some orthopedic patients report faster recovery with HBOT, though it can be expensive and is not always covered by insurance.

Personal take: I very much wanted to utilize this option as it not only helps wounds to heal, but also greatly reduces inflammation and promotes healing. However, the only way your doctor is likely to prescribe this is if you have a non-healing wound, and that’s also likely the only way insurance is going to cover it. Hospitals in my area wouldn’t even offer this when I offered to self-pay. I finally found a group in The Villages, Fla., that offers it, and their doctor approved me. But it was five days a week at two hours a session, and the facility was an hour away from my house—and I couldn’t drive. Further, the cost was something like $8,000. It became too impractical and expensive to consider.
I also examined treatments in a soft hyperbaric chamber, which are much more widely available, and much more affordable. Alas, according to my research, they’re of limited if any value.

Red Light Therapy

Red light therapy uses low-level wavelengths of light that penetrate the skin to stimulate cellular repair. Studies suggest it may reduce inflammation, ease pain, and promote tissue healing after injuries and surgeries. Sessions are typically painless and non-invasive.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy delivers acoustic waves to stimulate circulation and tissue regeneration. It’s sometimes used for tendon injuries and chronic pain but is increasingly explored as a tool for post-surgical healing. Multiple sessions are often required, and availability can vary.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections

PRP therapy involves drawing a patient’s blood, processing it to concentrate platelets, and then injecting it into the injured area. Platelets contain growth factors that may accelerate tissue repair and reduce inflammation. PRP is considered experimental for many uses and is often not covered by insurance, but some patients report strong results.

Low Level Laser Therapy

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT), uses light energy to stimulate healing at the cellular level. It can reduce pain, improve circulation, and support tissue recovery without invasive procedures.

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF)

PEMF uses electromagnetic fields to stimulate cell function and enhance healing. Some studies suggest it may reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and support bone repair. Portable PEMF devices are available, though cost and coverage vary.

Stem Cell Therapy

Stem cell therapy taps into the body’s natural repair system by using specialized cells that can transform into bone, cartilage, and other tissues. These cells are often taken from bone marrow or fat and then injected into the injured area to promote healing. This approach may help speed recovery, reduce inflammation, and support tissue repair, though it is still considered experimental and may not be covered by insurance.

Important Considerations

While alternative therapies can sound promising, results vary from patient to patient. Many of these treatments are considered complementary rather than primary medical care. Always discuss them with your surgeon to ensure they are safe for your specific recovery stage and condition.

And remember: insurance may not cover these therapies, so out-of-pocket costs can be significant. It’s important to weigh the potential benefits against financial considerations.

Final Thoughts

From hyperbaric oxygen therapy to PEMF, alternative healing methods are gaining attention for their potential to improve ankle surgery recovery. While more research is needed for many of these therapies, patients often find them helpful in reducing pain, improving mobility, and speeding healing when used alongside traditional care.

Share Your Story

Have you tried alternative therapies like hyperbaric oxygen, red light, PRP, or PEMF during your recovery? Did they make a difference in your healing?
Share your experience in the comments below—your story may help someone else discover new options for their journey.