A broken ankle, or ankle fracture, occurs when one or more bones that make up the ankle joint are broken. This injury can range from a simple break in one bone, which may not stop you from walking, to several fractures, which forces your ankle out of place and may require that you not put weight on it for a few months.

Common Symptoms

• Immediate and severe pain
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Tenderness to touch
• Inability to put weight on the injured foot
• Deformity (in severe fractures)

Cause & Anatomy

• Twisting or rotating your ankle
• Rolling your ankle (common in sports)
• Tripping or falling
• Impact from a car accident

Diagnosis

• Physical Examination: To check for swelling, bruising, and deformity.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays are commonly used to determine the extent and exact location of the fracture. In some cases, CT scans or MRIs might be necessary for a more detailed view.

Prevention

• Wear appropriate footwear
• Strengthen ankle muscles
• Be cautious in activities that put your ankles at risk

Treatment

• Immobilization: Casting or splinting to keep the ankle in place during healing.
• Medication: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Surgery: Required for severe fractures to realign the bones and fix them in place with screws, plates, or rods.
• Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation exercises to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion after the bone has healed.

Surgery

Broken ankle surgery is performed to repair fractures that cannot heal properly with immobilization alone. This surgery often involves realigning and stabilizing the broken bones with hardware such as screws, plates, or rods. Here’s a detailed overview of the process:

Indications for Surgery

• Severe fractures: Multiple bone breaks or displacement.
• Open fractures: Bone has pierced the skin.
• Fractures involving the joint: To ensure proper alignment and function.
• Instability: In cases where the ankle is too unstable to heal correctly with a cast alone.

Preoperative Preparation

• Medical Evaluation: Includes physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies.
• Medication Review: Adjustments to current medications, especially blood thinners.
• Fasting: No food or drink for a specified period before surgery.

Surgical Procedure

• Anesthesia: General or regional anesthesia is administered.
• Incision: A surgical cut is made to access the broken bones.
• Reduction: The bones are realigned to their proper position.
• Fixation: Hardware (screws, plates, rods) is used to hold the bones in place.
• Closure: The incision is closed with stitches or staples.
• Immobilization: A cast or splint is applied to protect the ankle.

Rehabilitation

• Initial Phase: Immobilization in a cast or splint for 6-8 weeks.
• Weight Bearing: Gradual return to weight-bearing activities as healing progresses.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to regain strength and mobility.
• Full recovery can take several months to a year.

FAQ’s

What can I expect during recovery from a broken ankle?

• Initial Phase: Immobilization in a cast or splint for 6-8 weeks.
• Weight Bearing: Gradual return to weight-bearing activities as healing progresses.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to regain strength and mobility.
• Full recovery can take several months to a year.

How long will I need to be off my feet?

• The duration varies based on the severity of the fracture and treatment. Generally, non-weight-bearing is required for 6-8 weeks, with gradual return to activities thereafter.

What are the potential complications of a broken ankle?

• Infection (especially if surgery is involved)
• Nerve or blood vessel damage
• Blood clots
• Nonunion or malunion of bones
• Arthritis in the joint

When can I start physical therapy?

• Physical therapy usually begins after the initial healing phase when the cast or splint is removed, typically around 6-8 weeks post-injury.

Can I drive with a broken ankle?

• It is generally not recommended to drive with a broken ankle, especially if it is on the right foot, due to limited mobility and reaction time. Consult with your doctor for specific advice.

How can I prevent ankle fractures in the future?

• Wear appropriate footwear
• Strengthen the muscles around the ankle
• Use caution during activities that pose a risk of falls or twists
• Consider ankle braces for high-risk sports

Will I fully recover from a broken ankle?

• Most people fully recover from a broken ankle, especially with proper treatment and rehabilitation. However, some may experience lingering stiffness or discomfort, particularly in cases of severe fractures or if complications arise.