What It Is

A broken ankle, or ankle fracture, occurs when one or more of the bones that make up the ankle joint—tibia (shinbone), fibula, or talus—are broken. These fractures can result from a fall, sports injury, or trauma, such as a car accident. Ankle fractures can range from minor cracks in the bone to more severe breaks that involve multiple bones or dislocation of the ankle joint, causing significant pain and immobility.

Signs & Symptoms

  • Sudden, severe pain at the time of the injury
  • Swelling and bruising around the ankle joint
  • Difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot
  • Visible deformity or misalignment of the ankle
  • Tenderness when touching the area of the fracture
  • Limited range of motion and stiffness in the ankle
  • Numbness or tingling in severe cases

Diagnosis

To diagnose an ankle fracture, Dr. Romanelli will perform a physical examination to assess the injured area, checking for swelling, bruising, and tenderness. X-rays are typically used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the fracture. In complex cases, a CT scan or MRI may be needed to evaluate the joint’s integrity and check for additional soft tissue injuries, such as ligament damage.

Treatment

Treatment for a broken ankle depends on the severity and location of the fracture. The primary goal is to realign the bones and ensure proper healing, restoring full function to the ankle joint.

Non-Surgical Treatment

For less severe fractures where the bones are still aligned (non-displaced fractures), non-surgical treatments may be effective. These options include:

  • Immobilization: A cast or walking boot may be used to stabilize the ankle and protect the fracture while it heals.
  • Rest and Ice: Elevating the leg and applying ice to reduce swelling and manage pain.
  • Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications may be recommended to control discomfort during the healing process.
  • Limited Weight-Bearing: Crutches or a walker may be used to prevent putting weight on the ankle while it heals.

Surgical Procedure

Surgery is often necessary for more severe ankle fractures, particularly if the bones are displaced or the ankle joint is unstable. Surgical options include:

  • Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): The surgeon makes an incision to reposition the fractured bones and uses metal plates, screws, or pins to secure them in place for proper alignment and healing.
  • External Fixation: In some cases, an external metal frame with pins is used to stabilize the ankle while the bones heal. This is often used for complex fractures or when swelling is too severe for immediate internal fixation.

Physical Therapy

Rehabilitation through physical therapy is essential for recovery following both non-surgical and surgical treatment of an ankle fracture. Physical therapy focuses on restoring strength, flexibility, and range of motion to the ankle. Dr. Romanelli works with physical therapists to develop a personalized recovery plan, helping patients regain mobility and return to their normal activities. The therapy may also include balance exercises to strengthen the ankle and prevent future injuries.