Signs of Ankle fracture

Description

A fracture is a break in a bone. The ankle is a complex joint containing the tibia and fibula of the lower leg and the talus bone of the foot. The ankle is supported by ligaments as well and they keep the bones in place. Fractures can be simple requiring only a walking boot or complex with tearing of the ligaments and distortion of the joint. These complex fractures frequently require surgery. If the skin is broken the fracture may be open or compound requiring surgery and antibiotics.

Symptoms

Pain, swelling, deformity of the ankle, numbness, weakness, bruising, pain with walking, inability to move the ankle, bleeding from the skin

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. Most ankle and foot fractures can be visualized on X-rays. Occasionally the fracture cannot be seen with a standard x-ray and a CT scan or MRI will need to be done. Rarely a bone scan will be performed.

Standard Workup

CT Scan
CT Scan
MRI
X-Ray

Treatment

Treatments for a broken ankle will vary, depending upon which bone has been broken and the severity of the injury. Simple fractures can be treated with a walking boot. More severe fractures will need casting. The most serious fractures need surgery to straighten the bones and make sure the ankle joint is put back in alignment. If the skin is broken or if the bone is protruding through the skin surgery will be done to clean out and fix the fracture, and antibiotics will be used to help prevent infection. Pain medications will be prescribed as well.