Ankle Fractures

What is an ankle fracture?

An ankle fracture refers to a broken ankle involving one or more of the three bones in the ankle joint. Ankle fractures usually result from a twisting mechanism type injury. Symptoms include immediate pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, deformity, and difficulty in walking.

How can you treat it?

Depending on the severity and type of fracture, one can treat it by applying a cast and limiting weightbearing for 6-8 weeks. Unstable types of fractures will likely need an ORIF (open reduction internal fixation) which is a surgical procedure to put the broken bones back together in an optimal alignment and securing them using hardware (i.e., plates and screws). Recovery time after surgery is typically about 6-8 weeks to allow for the bone to heal. If gross deformity is seen at the time of injury, it is critical to seek medical attention right away to put the bones back into its place to prevent skin tenting. If there is an open wound or break in the skin near the site of the broken bone, an emergency surgery is required.