Ankle Fractures
Traumatic Orthopaedic Injuries - Lower Limb Fractures: Ankle Fractures
Ankle fractures are common injuries that involve a break in one or more of the bones that make up the ankle joint, including the tibia (shinbone), fibula (outer leg bone), and talus (ankle bone). These fractures can range from simple, non-displaced breaks to complex injuries involving multiple bones and soft tissues. Ankle fractures may occur due to trauma, such as falls or twisting injuries, and can significantly affect mobility and weight-bearing. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment may help restore joint stability, reduce pain, and prevent complications.
What Is An Ankle Fracture?
An ankle fracture occurs when one or more bones in the ankle joint are broken. These fractures can vary in severity and location:
- Lateral Malleolus Fractures: Involve the fibula on the outside of the ankle.
- Medial Malleolus Fractures: Involve the tibia on the inside of the ankle.
- Posterior Malleolus Fractures: Involve the back part of the tibia.
- Bimalleolar or Trimalleolar Fractures: Involve two or three areas of the ankle, often leading to joint instability.
The severity of the fracture determines the treatment approach and recovery process.
Causes Of Ankle Fractures
Ankle fractures are typically caused by trauma or excessive stress on the joint. Common causes include:
- Twisting Injuries: Rolling or twisting the ankle during activities such as running or jumping.
- Falls: Landing awkwardly on the foot from a height or during a slip.
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: High-impact collisions can cause severe fractures.
- Sports Injuries: Sudden changes in direction or impact during sports like football or basketball.
Symptoms Of Ankle Fractures
Symptoms of an ankle fracture may vary depending on the severity of the injury but commonly include:
- Severe pain around the ankle, especially when bearing weight.
- Swelling and bruising in the ankle and foot.
- Deformity or a visible misalignment of the joint.
- Difficulty or inability to walk or move the ankle.
- Tenderness to touch around the fracture site.
- A popping or cracking sensation at the time of injury.
If you experience these symptoms, seeking medical attention is essential to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
Risk Factors For Ankle Fractures
Certain factors may increase the likelihood of sustaining an ankle fracture, including:
- Age: Older adults may have reduced bone density, making them more prone to fractures.
- Osteoporosis: Weak or brittle bones are more susceptible to fractures.
- High-Impact Activities: Sports or activities that involve jumping, running, or sudden changes in direction.
- Poor Footwear: Wearing shoes that do not provide adequate support or stability.
- Previous Ankle Injuries: A history of ankle sprains or fractures may increase susceptibility.
Treatment Options For Ankle Fractures
Treatment for ankle fractures focuses on restoring alignment, stability, and function while minimising complications. Options include:
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Immobilisation: Using a cast, boot, or brace to stabilise the ankle and allow the fracture to heal, especially for non-displaced fractures.
- Pain Management: Medications to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
- Rest and Elevation: Keeping the ankle elevated to minimise swelling and promote healing.
- Physiotherapy: Once the fracture begins to heal, exercises can help restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the ankle joint.
Surgical Treatments
Surgery may be required for complex or displaced fractures or when the joint is unstable:
- Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): Realigning the bone fragments and securing them with plates, screws, or rods.
- External Fixation: A stabilising frame placed outside the ankle for severe fractures or when internal fixation is not feasible.
- Bone Grafting: For fractures with significant bone loss, a graft may be used to promote healing.
Dr Scott Tulloch will evaluate the injury and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan based on the type and severity of the fracture and the patient’s activity level and goals.
When Should You Seek Help For An Ankle Fracture?
You should seek medical attention if:
- You experience severe ankle pain, swelling, or deformity following an injury.
- You are unable to stand, walk, or bear weight on the affected foot.
- There is numbness, tingling, or weakness in the foot, which may indicate nerve involvement.
- Pain or instability persists despite rest and home care.
Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to ensuring proper healing, restoring mobility, and minimising the risk of complications such as chronic pain or arthritis.
If you would like to learn more about ankle fractures or discuss your treatment options, book an appointment with Dr Scott Tulloch at the Victorian Orthopaedic Group.
