The ankle joint is a complex structure that plays an important role in supporting body weight and enabling movement. It comprises three bones, several ligaments, and tendons that provide stability and mobility. The three bones are the tibia (shinbone), the fibula (outside calf bone) and the talus (bone that connects the leg to the foot). An ankle fracture, more commonly known as a broken ankle, is an injury that occurs when one or more of the bones that make up the ankle joint, break. These injuries can range from stable breaks that can be treated with a moon boot to life-changing fracture dislocations that take months and/or years of rehabilitation.
Ankle fractures disrupt the stability and function of the ankle joint, leading to:
Some factors that may increase the risk of an ankle fracture include:
Ankle fractures can occur with:
Individuals who experience an ankle fracture may have the following symptoms:
Preventing ankle fractures involves strengthening bones and avoiding high-risk situations:
Ankle fractures can be classified into various types depending on their location:
The healing process of an ankle fracture can be divided into three stages:
Imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis, assess the severity or extent of the fracture, and identify possible associated injuries. These tests can also help with pre-operative planning.
The treatment of an ankle fracture depends on the type and severity of the injury. Treatment options include non-surgical and surgical approaches.
In cases of severe or displaced fractures, surgery may be necessary to realign the bones and secure them with screws, plates, or other hardware. (See Ankle Fracture Surgery Information Sheet)
Leaving an ankle fracture untreated can lead to several complications:
Prompt diagnosis and treatment ensure proper healing and prevent long-term complications.
If you have any concerns or questions regarding ankle fractures or have recently injured your ankle and require review, please contact us and book an appointment with Dr Graff.
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