Broken Ankle

Hi - I'm so glad I found this forum! Broke my ankle 15 January this year and had an op to pin it one week later. Spent six weeks with the cast on, hopping around on crutches. NHS hospital told me absolutely nothing - even had to remind them two weeks in that the staples needed to be removed! Cast came off two weeks ago and again no advice given - just a physio appointment for 9 days later. Have had one session at hospital where I was given the impression my ankle shouldn't be so swollen and that I really ought to be walking on it! Paid for some private treatment which was more encouraging and have assorted exercises to do now. However so depressed as one day my ankle seems to be improving and the next it's agony. Am able to walk very slowly but the sole of my heel feels like hot needles are being pushed in to it. Am encouraged though by reading other people's comments on this site that it is a slow process but still can't help feeling discouraged.