Ankle Fractures
How Do Ankle Fractures Happen?
Ankle fractures typically occur due to a twisting injury, often involving significant force. This can happen during activities like running, falling from a height, tripping over an object, stepping off a stair, or being involved in a motor vehicle accident.
How Common Are Ankle Fractures?
Studies show that ankle fractures occur at a rate of 100-160 cases per 100,000 people. They are more common in individuals who participate in sports.
How Can I Tell If I Have a Fracture or a Sprain?
The short answer? You probably can’t. Severe ankle sprains and fractures often look and feel the same unless the ankle is visibly displaced. A common myth is that if you can walk on it, it isn’t broken—that’s not true. The only way to know for sure is with an X-ray.
Do Ankle Fractures Have a Good Prognosis?
With proper treatment, most patients recover well. Studies show that 80% of athletes return to near-normal function after healing. However, older patients are more likely to experience complications, even if the fracture is repaired correctly.
How Long Does It Take for an Ankle Fracture to Heal?
Healing time varies but generally takes several months. The severity of the injury plays a big role—tripping over a rock is much different from being in a car accident. Higher-impact injuries tend to have worse outcomes. Bones typically heal in 2-3 months, but the joint can remain sore for up to a year. Some people may never regain a completely “normal” feeling in the ankle and may develop arthritis.
What Other Injuries Can Occur with an Ankle Fracture?
Ankle fractures are often accompanied by additional injuries, such as:
- Ligament tears or sprains
- Tendon ruptures
- Bone bruises
- Cartilage damage
- Nerve injuries
- Foot fractures
- Back, knee, or hip injuries
Who Is More Likely to Fracture Their Ankle?
Ankle fractures can happen to anyone, but they are most common in two groups:
- Older adults with osteoporosis who suffer falls
- Younger individuals involved in sports who sustain twisting injuries
Are There Different Types of Ankle Fractures?
Yes, there are many classification systems, but the most important distinction for patients is whether the fracture is displaced or non-displaced.
Key questions include:
- Are the bones still aligned, or have they shifted?
- Is the fracture stable?
If the bones are misaligned or the fracture is unstable, surgery is often necessary to prevent future problems. Other factors, such as the patient’s overall health and the number of fractured bones, also influence treatment decisions.
Do I Need Surgery If I Broke My Ankle?
Long-term studies show that ankle fractures can lead to arthritis, primarily if the joint is not properly realigned. Even a 1mm shift in the talus (ankle bone) can reduce contact surface area by 40%, increasing the risk of arthritis.
Prompt treatment is crucial—delaying surgery for even a week can make it harder to realign the bones due to early healing and scar tissue formation.
What Are the Long-Term Effects of an Ankle Fracture?
Ankle fractures can have lasting consequences, including:
- Physical: Reduced ability to participate in sports or strenuous activities
- Psychological: Depression, anxiety, fatigue, and sleep disturbances
- Social: Employment challenges, family strain, and reduced quality of life
Most patients recover well, with 70-80% returning to pre-injury activity levels. However, factors like fracture severity, patient age, overall health, and the skill of the surgeon in restoring alignment all affect outcomes.
Why Choose Next Step Foot & Ankle Clinic for Ankle Fracture Care?
Quick Access to Care
Timely treatment is key to optimal recovery. We strive to see trauma patients the same day they call and schedule surgery within the first week when needed. This reduces pain, swelling, and recovery time.
Dynamic Testing
To determine fracture stability, we perform stress testing using fluoroscopy and local anesthesia, providing an accurate assessment.
Advanced Laser Therapy
We offer MLS laser therapy, which can reduce healing time by up to 40%. Learn more here: MLS Laser Therapy.
Personalized Care
At our clinic, you’ll see a doctor, not a physician assistant or nurse practitioner. Your doctor will follow your case from start to finish.
Expertise in Associated Injuries
Ankle fractures often come with additional injuries like nerve entrapment, tendon damage, and instability. We specialize in treating these complications.
Holistic Approach
We believe in treating the whole patient. We offer a nutritional supplement proven to enhance bone healing as part of our care.
