A broken ankle

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A broken ankle (ankle fracture) means that one or more of the bones that make up the ankle joint — the tibia, fibula, or talus — are cracked or broken. It’s a common injury that can happen from twisting your ankle, falling, or trauma such as a car accident or sports injury.

⚕️ Anatomy of the Ankle

The ankle joint connects the leg bones (tibia and fibula) to the foot bone (talus).

  • Tibia: the main bone of the lower leg (inside of ankle)

  • Fibula: smaller bone on the outside of the leg

  • Talus: top bone of the foot that fits into the socket

🩸 Causes

  • Rolling or twisting the ankle

  • Falling from a height

  • Direct blow or impact (e.g., sports tackle, car accident)

  • Stress fractures from repetitive overuse

⚠️ Symptoms

  • Severe pain and tenderness

  • Swelling and bruising

  • Inability to bear weight or walk

  • Deformity (ankle appears crooked or misaligned)

  • Popping or snapping sound at injury

🩺 Diagnosis

  • Physical exam for deformity, swelling, and circulation

  • X-rays (most common)

  • CT scan or MRI if a complex fracture or ligament injury is suspected

💊 Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type of fracture, its alignment, and severity.

1. Non-Surgical (Stable Fractures)

  • Immobilization:

    • A cast, walking boot, or splint keeps bones in place while healing.

  • Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (R.I.C.E.)

    • Reduces swelling and pain.

  • Pain Management:

    • NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) or acetaminophen.

  • No weight bearing:

    • Use crutches or a walker until cleared by doctor.

2. Surgical (Unstable or Displaced Fractures)

  • Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF):

    • Surgeon repositions bones and secures them with plates, screws, or rods.

  • External Fixation (rare):

    • Metal frame outside the leg for complex or open fractures.

🏃‍♂️ Rehabilitation

  • Physical therapy after cast removal to restore motion and strength.

  • Gradual weight bearing under medical guidance.

  • Full recovery may take 8–12 weeks, sometimes longer for severe breaks.

⚠️ Complications (if untreated or poorly healed)

  • Chronic pain or stiffness

  • Arthritis in the ankle joint

  • Deformity or instability

  • Infection (especially after surgery)

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