Ankle Dislocation

What is a Dislocated Ankle?

An ankle dislocation is a severe injury where an abnormal separation between the bones of the ankle joint occurs. A dislocated ankle happens in conjunction with fractures of the distal ends of the tibia and fibula (malleolus.) However, a complete rupture of the lateral ankle ligaments is also common. Ankle dislocations can happen to people of all ages. An injured ankle typically occurs when an ankle is fractured. Nonetheless, it happens much more often than just sprains.

A dislocated ankle is very painful and requires immediate treatment. If you experience ankle dislocation, schedule an appointment online, or call us. Our podiatry centers offer lead podiatrists in South Florida.

Ankle dislocations usually result from a severely injured ankle. Common injuries involve motor vehicle accidents. Although they can occur while playing sports. This is especially true if jumping is involved. However, it’s also common when your foot is pointed downward during impact.

Dislocated Ankle Symptoms

An immediate symptom of a dislocated ankle is sudden intense pain and swelling. Loss of normal function is also another common sign. There will be a visible deformity around the ankle. And the tibia and fibula bones in the lower leg may also appear out of place. If you experience numbness or tingling in the foot, nerve damage might have occurred. Another telling sign is if your foot is cold or turns into a bluish-white color. Meaning the blood supply may be restricted.

Dislocated Ankle Causes

When an ankle dislocation occurs, it results from a severe injury to the ankle. If an ankle is dislocated, one or more tear occurs in the ankle ligament. And, without the ankle ligamets the bones will seperate at the ankle. Common causes are as follows:

• Car accident
• Severe injury
• Sports injuries
• Sudden impact when foot is pointed down

Who is Most at Risk for This Injury?

• You do a lot of athletic activities

• You’ve had an ankle sprain, fracture, or dislocation in the past

• You have a condition that makes your ligaments loose

• Your ankle has been abnormal since birth

• You smoke cigarettes

• You are obese

Ankle Dislocation Treatment

Non-surgical Options

A thorough diagnostic and examination are common, such as:

• X-rays
• CT scan
• MRI

However, treatment may vary depending on the severity of the injured ankle and other injuries involved. Besides pain medication, your doctor may attempt to reduce swelling or manipulate the bones of the joint back into place.

Surgical Options

Although manipulation is not a surgical procedure, some patients may need surgery to put the bones back in place and let them properly heal (internal fixation). Surgeons often use special plates and screws to keep the bones in place. If necessary, the surgeon may also repair tears to your ligament.

After treatment, an ankle in a cast is typical for several weeks. And the patient may be required to use crutches, depending on the injury. After the ankle has healed a bit, the patient can start physical therapy to restore full motion.

For a preferred ankle dislocation specialist, call us at  954-906-9272 to schedule a consultation. For a South Florida foot doctor located in Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs & Plantation, contact our office.