Ankle fracture

When the foot is twisted, the soft tissues can tear or the bones can break or both. Since the ankle joint is so tightly fitted together, even a displacement of the bones by as little as 1 mm can cause a significant increase in the abnormal forces across the joint, eventually leading to arthritis. When the bones break, swelling and instability occur.

Ice, elevation, and support are the initial steps. The definitive treatment is based on the fracture pattern and the degree of displacement. Early accurate reduction of the fracture and support with a splint or surgical plates and screws are extremely important. X-rays, MRI and CT scans are used to define the fracture patterns. Accuracy in diagnosis and treatment are the keys to a successful outcome.