Ankle Fracture Diagnosis and Recovery

An ankle fracture can turn simple steps into a painful ordeal. Damage to ankle bones, tendons, and ligaments can impact your balance, movement, and quality of life. Understanding the diagnosis and healing process for ankle fractures can empower you to take control of your

recovery and avoid long-term issues.

The Importance of Seeking Immediate Care for Ankle Fractures

An ankle fracture is a break in one or more of the bones that make up the ankle joint. It typically occurs when the ankle experiences too much force, such as a fall or accident. The ankle is a complex joint that carries body weight and absorbs impact with every step. When ankle bones break, even seemingly minor fractures can affect the stability of the entire joint if left untreated. Prompt evaluation is critical to prevent long-term issues from ankle fractures.

Identifying What Occurs with an Injured Ankle

There are multiple types of ankle fractures, ranging from simple to complex and mild to severe. Simple fractures involve a single bone while complex fractures may involve more than one part of the joint. Stable fractures do not shift out of place and generally have an easier healing process than unstable fractures, which may move and damage surrounding ligaments. Recognizing the pattern of the fracture is critical for specialists to guide your treatment and recovery expectations.

Treating Fractures Differently Based on Type

Sprains and strains are common ankle injuries caused by overstretching ligaments and tendons. Weak bones, poor balance, and weak muscles also contribute to the risk of ankle fractures. Those who have experienced prior ankle injuries or have bone-weakening conditions may be at greater risk, even during light activity.

Causes and Risk Factors for Ankle Fractures

A clinical examination is the first step in the diagnosis of an ankle fracture. Swelling, bruising, tenderness to touch, and an inability to bear weight on the affected foot are red flags. Your provider will conduct a physical examination to evaluate range of motion, stability, and pain points. Movement tests and a review of how the injury occurred will help the provider decide if imaging is necessary.

Physical Examination: A Key Step in Diagnosis

Imaging is the next step in confirming the diagnosis of an ankle fracture. An X-ray is often the initial imaging tool used and it gives clear images of bone positioning. Other imaging options, like CT scans or MRI, can also be used to look at the ankle joint and any surrounding tissue damage in more complex cases. Accurate and detailed imaging ensures that no information is missed in the diagnosis.

Diagnostic Imaging in Confirming Ankle Fractures

The symptoms of an ankle fracture include pain, swelling, bruising, and limited mobility. In some cases, the ankle may not be visibly deformed, but the pain is sharp, and mobility is limited.

Bruising may spread up the leg from the ankle and into the foot. In more severe fractures, the ankle may visibly appear out of place, or it may be impossible to put weight on the foot. Don’t hesitate to get evaluated for a suspected ankle fracture, especially if pain gets worse with activity.

Symptoms Indicating Potential Ankle Fracture

It is common for ankle fractures to be initially misdiagnosed as ankle sprains. This is because both injuries cause similar swelling and pain. The difference is that ankle fractures typically cause point tenderness directly over the bone and more difficulty putting weight on the ankle. Pain is also often more of a deep ache with ankle fractures. Ankle sprains can cause these symptoms as well so when in doubt, get it checked.

Diagnosing the Difference: Fracture vs. Sprain

Treatment varies depending on the type and stability of the ankle fracture. If the ankle fracture is stable, meaning the pieces of the bone are still lined up, it can likely heal with immobilization in a boot or cast and activity modification. Rest and recovery protocols play an important role in the early stages of healing. At-home care, like elevating the ankle and limiting swelling, and pain medications provide comfort and monitoring from follow up visits.

Non-Surgical Treatment and Recovery Options

In the case of an unstable or displaced fracture, surgery may be needed to restore proper alignment. Surgical fixation uses hardware to hold the broken bones in place while they heal, providing extra support to the joint and restoring function. Surgical repair of ankle fractures is more effective in preventing long-term complications, like arthritis and instability, when there are complex fractures.

When Surgery May Be Recommended

Recovery and healing from an ankle fracture is a process. After the initial healing of the fracture, the focus of treatment turns to range of motion, strength, and stability exercises. Physical therapy rehabilitation helps prevent stiffness and muscle atrophy during recovery. Wasatch Foot & Ankle Institute has a strong focus on patient education and recovery programs are highly individualized based on your injury and lifestyle.

Rehabilitation and Recovery Process

The time frame to recover from an ankle fracture also varies with some patients being able to begin partial weight bearing within a few weeks, while others may require several months. Patience and diligence are important to avoid setbacks in the recovery process and to achieve the best outcome.

Expectations for Recovery Time

Maintaining ankle strength and balance is key to preventing future ankle fractures. Exercises that improve balance and stability are important, as are supportive shoes that take pressure off of the ankle joint. Those who have had a previous ankle fracture may also benefit from wearing a brace or support during activities.

Preventative Measures to Avoid Future Fractures

Persistent ankle pain, swelling, or instability are all indicators that you should have a foot and ankle specialist evaluate your foot. Early treatment is beneficial in avoiding long-term complications and making sure a fracture or other injury heals properly. Wasatch Foot & Ankle Institute has experience in diagnosing and treating all types of ankle fractures and has a long-term focus on function and mobility in patients.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my ankle is fractured or just sprained?

Fractures often have sharp localized pain over the bone and make it hard to put weight on the ankle. Imaging is the only way to know for sure.

How long does it take for an ankle fracture to heal?

Healing times can vary depending on the severity of the fracture and treatment method. Six weeks to several months is typical.

Can I walk on a fractured ankle?

Walking on a fractured ankle can do more damage and prolong recovery. You should avoid putting weight on it without first getting medical care.

Do all ankle fractures require surgery?

No, not all ankle fractures need surgery. If the broken bones can stay aligned, it can often heal without surgery.

When should I see a foot and ankle specialist?

If pain, swelling, or instability continues, or you are unable to bear weight on your ankle after an injury, it is time to see a foot and ankle specialist.