Ankle fracture

Ankle fracture, also known as a broken ankle, occurs when one or more bones in the ankle joint are cracked or shattered. The ankle joint consists of three bones:

1. Tibia (shinbone)

2. Fibula (outer lower leg bone)

3. Talus (ankle bone)

Types of ankle fractures:

1. Stable fracture: Bone remains aligned

2. Unstable fracture: Bone is out of place

3. Comminuted fracture: Bone breaks into multiple pieces

4. Open fracture: Bone pierces skin

5. Stress fracture: Small crack in bone

Causes:

1. Trauma (falls, sports injuries, car accidents)

2. Rolling, twisting, or rotating ankle

3. Landing awkwardly from a jump

4. Osteoporosis (weakened bones)

Symptoms:

1. Severe pain

2. Swelling, bruising, and redness

3. Deformity or abnormal ankle position

4. Limited mobility

5. Instability

Treatment:

1. Immobilization (cast, splint, or boot)

2. Pain management

3. Surgery (for unstable or complex fractures)

4. Physical therapy

5. Rehabilitation

Surgical options:

1. Open reduction internal fixation (ORIF)

2. Percutaneous pinning

3. External fixation

Recovery time:

1. Stable fracture: 4-6 weeks

2. Unstable fracture: 6-12 weeks

3. Surgical recovery: 3-6 months

Complications:

1. Arthritis

2. Chronic pain

3. Limited mobility

4. Infection

5. Nerve damage

If you suspect an ankle fracture, seek medical attention immediately.