Introduction
Pickleball, America’s fastest-growing sport, is loved by many—but injuries can happen. When 25-year-old Keegan Myers suffered a severe ankle fracture during a friendly game, her recovery journey highlighted the importance of expert orthopedic care, surgery, and personalized physical therapy. This blog explores seven key steps Keegan took to regain mobility after her serious pickleball injury.
1. Immediate Emergency Care and Diagnosis
After tripping and dislocating her ankle in three places, Keegan was rushed to Gulf Coast Medical Center Emergency Department. X-rays confirmed a displaced trimalleolar ankle fracture, involving breaks to the tibia, fibula, and talus bones. Quick response and accurate diagnosis are critical first steps in orthopedic care.
2. Open Reduction Internal Fixation (ORIF) Surgery
Keegan’s surgery involved metal plates and screws to realign the broken bones—standard treatment for complex fractures that can’t heal with a cast alone. This procedure ensures bones heal correctly, reducing long-term complications and aiding full recovery.
3. Initial Immobilization and Non-Weight Bearing
Post-surgery, Keegan couldn’t bear weight on her ankle for two weeks and used a walker instead of crutches. This phase is essential to protect the repair and minimize swelling while bones begin healing.
4. Transition to Walking Boot and Gradual Weight Bearing
After two weeks, the splint and stitches were removed, and a walking boot was fitted. Keegan started to bear weight on her ankle as tolerated—an important milestone in rebuilding strength and mobility.
5. Personalized Physical Therapy Program
Starting four weeks after surgery, Keegan worked with physical therapists who created a tailored plan focusing on:
- Massage and gentle ankle movement to reduce stiffness
- Resistance band exercises to strengthen muscles
- Balance training and step-up drills
- Progressive lunges and active movements
This personalized approach helped Keegan walk without her boot within weeks—faster than many others with similar injuries.
6. Mental Recovery and Celebrating Milestones
Keegan overcame negative online predictions and celebrated regaining independence, such as driving again. Positive support from her care team—including a therapy dog named Fitzgerald III—boosted her morale throughout recovery.
7. Ongoing Support from Comprehensive Orthopedic Care
The expert team at Lee Health Musculoskeletal Institute played a vital role in Keegan’s healing journey, providing coordinated care and motivation every step of the way.
Conclusion
Keegan Myers’ journey from a severe pickleball injury to restored mobility underscores the importance of timely treatment, surgery, and dedicated physical therapy. Whether recovering from a sports injury or managing chronic orthopedic conditions, expert care and perseverance are key. If you or a loved one face a similar injury, seek prompt medical advice and a personalized rehab plan to maximize recovery.
For injury prevention tips and more on pickleball safety, check out our article Preparing for Pickleball: Injury Prevention Strategies for the 2025 U.S. Open and Beyond.
Learn more about Lee Health Orthopedics and how we can support your recovery journey at leehealth.org/orthopedics.