Ankle Fracture

An ankle fracture (broken ankle) is a partial or complete break. However, it can occur in one or more of the bones that make up the ankle joint.

An ankle fracture can range from an avulsion injury to a severe shattering. Avulsion injuries occur when small pieces of bone are pulled off. However, the severe shattering-type, breaks of the tibia, fibula or both.

During a fracture, the ligaments can also get damaged. However, doctors classify this according to the area of broken bone(s). For instance, a break at the end of the fibula is called a lateral malleolus fracture. Although, if both the tibia and fibula are broken, its called a bimalleolar fracture.

Ankle Fracture Symptoms

• Immediate and severe pain
• Swelling along the length of the leg (or localized)
• Bruising
• Blisters may occur over the site. These should be promptly treated by a foot and ankle surgeon.
• Cannot put any weight on the injured foot
• Bone protruding through the skin. This is a sign that immediate care is needed. Because they can lead to severe infection and prolonged recovery.

Are you expereincing these symptoms? Schedule an appointment online to visit our top podiatrist in South Florida. Our foot and ankle specialists are serving in Broward and Palm Beach. Located in Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, and Plantation.

Ankle Fracture Causes

Although ankle fractures can happen at any age, they are more common among older adults. More so adults who are very active. Common causes of ankle fracture, include:

• Twisting, rotating or rolling ankle
• Impact or stress from tripping or falling
• Rolling ankle, affecting ligaments that keep the ankle stable
• Impact to ankle in a car accident

Broken Ankle Treatment

For an accurate diagnosis, its recommended to have your ankle evaluated by a foot and ankle surgeon. The surgeon will order x-rays and other imaging. However, treatment for a broken ankle depends on the type of break and the severity.

Non-surgical ankle fracture treatments involve immobilization. This helps to protect and restrict the ankle joint in a cast or splint. Thus, allowing the bone to heal. Medication is also recommended for pain relief such. Such as, anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling.

For some severely injured ankles, surgery may be neccasary. However, in order to repair the fractured bones and other soft-tissue injuries. The podiatric surgeon will then select the proper procedure based on the type of injury or fracture, such as:

• Lateral Malleolus
• Medial Malleolus
• Posterior Malleolus
• Bimalleolar
• Trimalleolar
• Syndesmotic Injury

For a preferred ankle fracture specialist in Broward or Palm Beach. Call us today at 954-906-9272. A foot doctor located in Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs & Plantation.