Ankle Fracture
There are 2 long bones (tibia and fibula) that make up the ankle complex. When one or both bones break it is known as an ankle fracture. The severity of the ankle fracture depends on the force, rotation, and type of impact; the fracture can be as minor as an avulsion injury (small piece of bone that has been slightly pulled-off) to severe shattering-type breaks of the tibia, fibula, or both. Neglecting an ankle fracture can result in severe post traumatic ankle arthritis.
Symptoms
Diagnosis
The foot and ankle specialist will evaluate the ankle and make appropriate diagnosis. X-rays are routinely performed. In some cases, advanced imagine modality, such as a CT scan is performed.
Non-surgical
Treatment varies based on severity of the fracture(s). It is imperative to start “RICE” protocol.
Surgical treatment is warranted if the fracture is severe and affects the function of the limb.
There are 2 long bones (tibia and fibula) that make up the ankle complex. When one or both bones break it is known as an ankle fracture. The severity of the ankle fracture depends on the force, rotation, and type of impact; the fracture can be as minor as an avulsion injury (small piece of bone that has been slightly pulled-off) to severe shattering-type breaks of the tibia, fibula, or both. Neglecting an ankle fracture can result in severe post traumatic ankle arthritis.
Symptoms
- Pain at the site of the fracture, with inability to walk due to the pain.
- Significant swelling
- Blistering: this is a concerning sign and should receive immediate evaluation
- Bruising
- Bone tenting the skin or protruding out of the skin. This is a concerning sign and should receive immediate evaluation
- Inability to move the ankle: this is a concerning sign and should receive immediate evaluation
- Numbness and tingling: this is a concerning sign and should receive immediate evaluation
- Foot cooler and paler than usual: this is a concerning sign and should receive immediate evaluation
Diagnosis
The foot and ankle specialist will evaluate the ankle and make appropriate diagnosis. X-rays are routinely performed. In some cases, advanced imagine modality, such as a CT scan is performed.
Non-surgical
Treatment varies based on severity of the fracture(s). It is imperative to start “RICE” protocol.
- Rest: stay off the injured extremity
- Ice: Apply ice over the area, with a towel between the skin and the ice. Never place ice directly over skin.
- Compression: wrap the foot and ankle with an ACE bandage
- Elevation: elevate the ankle on 2 pillows or above the level of the heart
Surgical treatment is warranted if the fracture is severe and affects the function of the limb.