Ankle Fracture

Ankle fractures are one of the most common injuries, affecting people of all ages and activity levels. Whether from a sudden fall, an awkward step, or a sports-related incident, an ankle fracture can happen in an instant. If you’ve recently suffered an ankle injury or suspect you have a fracture, understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help guide your recovery.

What is an Ankle Fracture?

An ankle fracture occurs when one or more of the bones in the ankle joint break. The ankle joint is made up of three bones: the tibia (shinbone), fibula (the smaller bone next to the tibia), and talus (the bone that connects the leg to the foot).

A fracture can happen to any of these bones, or to the surrounding ligaments and tendons.

Depending on the severity of the break, an ankle fracture can range from a minor hairline fracture to a more complex, displaced fracture where the bones are out of alignment.

Causes of Ankle Fractures

Ankle fractures can happen for a variety of reasons, but the most common causes include:

1. Trauma or Impact
2. Sports Injuries
3. Twisting or Rolling the Ankle
4. Osteoporosis or Weak Bones

Symptoms of an Ankle Fracture

The symptoms of an ankle fracture can vary depending on the location and severity of the break. Common signs of an ankle fracture include:

If you experience any of these symptoms after an ankle injury, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.

Treatment Options for Ankle Fractures

Treatment for an ankle fracture depends on the type, location, and severity of the fracture. There are both non-surgical and surgical options available.

Non-Surgical Treatment

For fractures that are not displaced (where the bones remain aligned), conservative treatment may be sufficient:

1. Rest and Elevation
2. Ice
3. Splinting or Casting
4. Pain Management
5. Physical Therapy

Surgical Treatment

If the ankle fracture is severe, displaced, or involves multiple fractures, surgery may be necessary to realign the bones and ensure proper healing. Surgical options include:

1. Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): This is the most common surgical procedure for an ankle fracture. During ORIF, the surgeon will make an incision to realign the fractured bones and use screws, plates, or rods to hold them in place while they heal.
2. External Fixation: In some cases, an external frame may be used to stabilize the ankle while the bones heal, particularly in complex fractures or when skin is damaged.

Surgery is typically followed by a period of immobilization, followed by rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility in the ankle.

Recovery and Outlook

The recovery time for an ankle fracture depends on the severity of the injury and the type of treatment required. Non-surgical fractures usually take 6 to 8 weeks to heal, though it can take several months to fully recover and regain strength in the ankle. If surgery is required, the recovery process may take longer, typically 8 to 12 weeks or more, and may require physical therapy to restore function and prevent long-term complications.

Conclusion

Ankle fractures are common injuries that can cause significant pain and disrupt your daily activities. However, with prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most people recover fully and return to their normal routines. Whether your fracture is treated conservatively or requires surgery, following your doctor’s instructions and committing to rehabilitation is key to a successful recovery. If you’ve suffered an ankle injury, contact our office today!