Benefit From Comprehensive Ankle Fracture Treatment Near Jeffersonville, IN

A common orthopedic injury, an ankle fracture involves a crack or break in the shinbone (tibia), calf bone (fibula), and/or ankle bone (talus)—the trio of bones that make up the ankle joint. Essential for supporting and stabilizing the body, the ankle must adapt seamlessly to ever-changing surfaces during movement.

The impact of an ankle fracture extends beyond physical pain. This type of injury can significantly reduce your mobility and overall quality of life. Recognizing the urgency, Dr. Dawn M. Michels emerges as an expert in ankle fracture treatment in the Jeffersonville, Indiana, area. As a board-certified doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM), Dr. Michels specializes in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic.

Recognizing the Signs

An ankle fracture can result from sudden trauma, such as a direct blow, abrupt twist, or crushing injury, which can occur in a fall or a collision with another player in sports. It can also develop gradually through repetitive stress, such as long-distance running. Regardless of the cause, the symptoms of a broken ankle include:

• Pain at the fracture site, which may extend from the foot to the knee
• Bruising that appears soon after an injury
• Significant swelling, either localized to the ankle or spread along the entire length of the lower leg
• An inability to walk, which may be a sign of a severe ankle fracture (it is sometimes possible to walk with a mild to moderate fracture)
• A change in the appearance of the ankle, such as an abnormal bend

Given that similar symptoms can occur with a less severe ligament injury, such as an ankle sprain, an accurate diagnosis is the key to receiving appropriate treatment and ensuring optimal healing.

Tailored Ankle Fracture Treatment

Treatment for a broken ankle can vary based on the stability of the fracture. If the ends of the broken bone have not shifted out of alignment, conservative therapy may be sufficient, such as immobilization with a supportive boot or cast and a regimen of stretches and exercises to help prevent stiffness from developing during the healing process. If necessary, crutches or a cane can be used to aid mobility, and an over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) can be taken to relieve pain.

If an ankle fracture is unstable or there are multiple breaks, surgical treatment may be advised. Usually, surgery is followed by a progressive physical therapy program to build muscle support around healed ankle bones and reduce the risk of early-onset ankle arthritis.

Receive Timely Care at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic

If you have sustained an ankle injury, specialized care awaits you at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic. Schedule an appointment with our experienced podiatrist, Dr. Michels, at our office near Jeffersonville, IN, today.