I am one year post orif for trimalleolar fx. good healing, strength, rom. but almost daily i have swelling beginning in early pm along w/ maddening tightness. os says this may be lifelong. what to do?

Rest and elevate: Swelling may last a long time following surgery. Rest and elevate to minimize the swelling. Have it evaluated by your surgeon and get their advice. You may benefit with vascular support compression stockings.

HOPE: You can hope and pray, and continue to see your dr. For evaluations. Having a history of an orif post fracture, does unfortunately put you at risk of these type of life long adverse events. Swelling and persistent arthritis pains are the most common as the natural anatomy of your hip/blood vessels have been altered due to your fracture and inevitable intraoperative changes. Nsaids and diuretics.