Ankle Fracture

Ankle fracture, or broken ankle, indicates an injury to one or more of the bones that make up the ankle joint. This type of injury can range from a simple break in the bone that does not require extensive treatment, to a complex injury requiring surgical intervention.

The most common cause of an ankle fracture is “rolling the ankle” causing a break in the fibula and/or tibia. This injury can also damage the ligaments supporting the ankle.

Signs and Symptoms

 

  • Pain

  • Swelling

  • Bruising about the ankle and/or heel

  • Blistering

  • Inability to put weight on the affected leg


Diagnosis and Treatment

 

Sometimes patients are still able to walk on a broken ankle therefore, timely and accurate diagnosis of this injury is critical to proper treatment.

Treatment of ankle fractures range from a walking boot, cast or surgical treatment. There are many factors that help determine the appropriate treatment of an ankle fracture.