The treatment and recovery for a broken ankle depends on the doctor’s specific diagnosis. For a stable ankle break, you may need to use crutches in order to keep weight off of the injury. You also may need to wear a boot or a cast. An unstable break, on the other hand, will typically require surgery. Both those with stable and unstable ankle breaks usually need to attend physical therapy. The recovery varies on the injury and the surgery. The time to return to low-impact athletic activity can span from three to four months for a stable ankle break, and nine months to one year for unstable ankle breaks. Be sure to consult with a podiatrist on the particular details of your ankle injury.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Huntersville Office | 16419 Northcross Dr Suite A, Huntersville, NC 28078; Mooresvillle Office | 206 Joe Knox Avenue Suite D, Mooresville, NC 28117; and Mountain Island | 10310 Couloak Drive Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28216 . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
