Need Help with Rehab exercises for a broken ankle

I broke my ankle a while back 9 pins and two plates and I need to get back on track with my exercising.  My doctor recommends the bike and I get so bored on the bike.  If I do anymore then 10-20 minutes on the elliptical or treadmill my ankle starts swelling it looks really scary.  Does anyone have any new ideas?

I did the same thing a few years ago - swiming actually really helped and it's easy not just on the ankle, but on all the joints.  the gym I belong to also has aqua-aerobics which helped.  When on the bike I try to read a book or magazine, I probably don't work as fast, but I tend to be on there longer and I don't notice the time passing.  Pilates is a good workout for you to start back with as well.  If you've never done it before, you should try to find a class that accomodates all levels.  My surgeon told me to stay away from the treadmill because I was hitting that harder than actual pavement.  He suggested walking outside, even slowly to help get back some of the strength.  And if you're in physical therapy - make sure you do the exercises they give you, they really do help.  I'll keep trying to think of the other things I did that seemed to help.  Good luck.

Thank for you Help Molly, I'll try the swimming and look into the Pilates.

Thanks again

Glad I could help.  If you have any other questions, feel free to ask.  I know how much the rehabbing for the ankle sucks, but once your done, it'll feel so much better.

And, it will still swell.  Mine still swells after 3 years, but it does go down.  And make sure you continue to ice it after you work out.  Even if it's just 10-20 minutes.