As one of the most common bone and joint injuries suffered by people of all ages, ankle fractures are a risk no matter what kind of lifestyle you lead. Whether you are an athlete or someone who enjoys outdoor activites, you could suffer the symptoms that indicate a break or crack in one of your ankle bones. Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Ankle Fractures Boynton Beach
There are three bones that can be damaged, leading to ankle fractures Boynton Beach. These include:
- The Talus – This bone is not seen externally. It is within the ankle between the heel bone of your foot and the Tibia and Fibula above it. When this bone is in good health, it supports a full range of motion.
- The Tibia – This is the thicker of the two bones that make up the lower leg. The hard bony knob is what you can feel and usually see as the inside of your ankle.
- The Fibula – This is the thinnest of the two bones that make up the lower leg. The fibula ends with a bony knob, which you feel and usually see as the outside of your ankle.
Learn about what can cause fractures and discover the symptoms and treatment options with a foot doctor Boynton Beach.
Common Causes of Ankle Fractures Boynton Beach
There are many events that can lead to ankle fractures Boynton Beach. Direct impacts are a common cause. A falling object or impact with something heavy and solid could cause a fracture to any one, or multiple ankle bones. Sudden and sharp twists may also lead to fractures.
In addition to the bones listed above, there are two other important elements in the ankle. The joint capsule is a fibrous membrane that allows for smooth movement. If this is compromised, there will be more stress and aggravation caused around the ankle. The ligaments are also key to stability and health. If these fibers are compromised or even torn, you could be at higher risk of suffering an ankle fracture.
Whether in the ankle or anywhere else in the body, a fracture occurs when stress exceeds the strength of the elements involved. Sometimes, this can lead to a sprain, a painful but moderate form of ankle injury.
If the bone gives way completely, it will crack or break. Fractures and sprains often occur simultaneously. They occur when:
- The ankle is violently rolled inwards or outwards (common when walking, running, or playing sports.)
- You are involved in an accident where significant impact force is applied to the ankle.
- The joint is flexed or extended in a violent and unusual motion.
- Coming down from a jump with enough force to fracture the ankle.
Even if you are healthy, some sports and outdoor activities can increase the risk of ankle fractures Boynton Beach. As you age, bone density and strength decreases, making these fractures a serious risk for the elderly.
What are the Symptoms of an Ankle Fracture?
Pain and inflammation are signs that you have suffered damage to your ankle. A fracture usually comes with severe pain that will require immediate medical attention. Your podiatrist Boynton Beach can perform a complete examination, including an x-ray, to determine whether you have suffered a fracture or other injury.
Common symptoms of ankle fractures Boynton Beach include:
- Severe pain around or near to the ankle. This pain will usually prevent you from walking.
- Swelling caused by soft tissue damage or blood or fluid around the joint.
- Bruising around the ankle. This won’t occur immediately but will develop within hours of suffering a fracture.
- In severe cases, you may notice deformities around the site of injury. Extreme ankle fractures Boynton Beach may break the skin, with exposed bone showing.
- If nerve or blood vessel damage occurs, you could have pain in your foot, numbness, and you may not be able to move your feet or toes.
Any of these symptoms are serious. If you can’t place weight on your ankle, if elevation and icing don’t provide relief, and if household pain medications aren’t working, it’s time to visit your podiatrist Boynton Beach.
If the bone is exposed, deformities are apparent, or if you feel numb and can’t move your foot or ankle, you need to visit an emergency department immediately.
Ankle Fractures Boynton Beach Treatment
Only a medical professional can diagnose a fractured ankle. If you suspect you have broken or cracked a bone and you don’t need emergency medical care, you can visit the Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center in Boynton Beach.
Our board-certified foot and ankle specialists will perform a complete diagnosis and proceed with a suitable treatment plan to get you back into peak health. Dr. Jodi Schoenhaus and Dr. Jason Gold use a range of diagnostic techniques, ranging from physical examination to digital imaging.
The type and severity of the fracture will be considered when determining treatment.
- A splint may be used if the ankle doesn’t need to be cast for healing.
- In more serious cases, a cast will be used to set your ankle and allow bones to rebind.
- Bones may need surgical realignment to allow for a full range of motion after healing.
- Surgery may also be needed for compound fractures when the bone has broken the skin.
Your comfort is a priority. We will provide practical advice for pain management and will prescribe any necessary medication to help you bare the pain in the days following a fracture or related surgery.
Fractures usually take between one and two months to heal. Beyond that, it could take up to six months before you regain a full range of motion. Each case is unique. Our doctors will explain the treatment and recovery process so that you know exactly what to expect. Follow-up visits for ankle fractures Boynton Beach will ensure that the injury is properly healing.
If you or someone in your family has suffered a fracture, or if you suspect a serious injury, contact your local podiatrist Boynton Beach. You’ll receive the best care at the Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center.
