Slipping on ice is the number one cause of ankle fractures during the winter months. Other causes include twisting an ankle in a snow bank or stumbling over uneven, snow-covered ground. Most ankle fractures have a high-energy fall or twist. These injuries occur with a sudden build-up in speed or bodily momentum where one of the body's bones is pushed in two different directions. This motion causes the bones to be strained in different directions and often results in the bone breaking. Common complaints for a fractured ankle include immediate and severe pain, swelling, bruising, deformity, tender to touch, and inability to place weight on injured foot.
In addition to a physical exam, a podiatric physician normally takes an x-ray. Since the ankle joint is made of three bones (Tibia or shinbone, Fibula the small bone outside of Tibia, and Talus a bone in the foot) there are many different types of ankle fractures. Depending on the severity of the bones involved or how wide the gap between bone surgery may or may not be needed. What is consistent is that it takes at least six weeks for broken bones to heal. This time may be longer if ligaments and tendons also need to heal. Most people will typically return to normal daily activities besides sports within 3 to 4 months. Rehabilitation is a very important part of treatment regardless of how the ankle fracture is treated. When cleared to start moving the ankle by a physician, doing daily exercises is the key to a successful recovery. It goes without saying that following the exercises set forth by a physician and physical therapist will lead to the best results.
By Dr. Scott Hamilton of Coastal Podiatry Associates. Myrtle Beach, SC.