Comprehensive Ankle Fracture Care Near New Albany, IN

An ankle fracture is a common orthopedic injury that involves a crack or break in the shinbone (tibia), calf bone (fibula), and/or ankle bone (talus), the three bones that make up the ankle joint. To effectively stabilize the body, this hardworking joint must continually adapt to changing surfaces during movement.

Because an ankle fracture can cause a significant loss of mobility—and quality of life—this type of injury requires prompt and specialized care. Dr. Dawn M. Michels is the go-to expert for ankle fracture treatment in the New Albany, Indiana, area. 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 of an Ankle Fracture

An ankle fracture can result from sudden trauma, such as a direct blow, abrupt twist, or crushing injury. This can occur after tripping and falling or colliding with another player during sports play. It can also happen after a hairline crack develops in an ankle bone due to repetitive stress, such as long-distance running.

To ensure appropriate treatment for an ankle fracture, it is important to recognize the symptoms and seek prompt medical attention. Some possible signs include:

• Severe ankle pain that develops immediately after an injury
• Swelling and bruising around the ankle
• Difficulty bearing weight, walking, or wearing shoes
• An abnormal bend or another visible deformity in the ankle

Given that a less severe ligament injury, such as a sprained ankle, can produce similar symptoms, an accurate diagnosis is needed to determine the right treatment approach and ensure optimal healing.

Tailored Treatment for a Broken Ankle

Ankle fracture treatment can vary based on the stability of the injury. For a stable fracture in which the ends of the broken bone have not shifted out of alignment, conservative therapy may suffice. This can involve:

• Immobilization with a supportive boot or cast
• Crutches to limit weight-bearing on the injured joint
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and swelling
• Targeted stretches and exercises to help prevent stiffness and muscle weakness

To address an unstable fracture or multiple broken bones, surgical intervention may be recommended. This can involve repositioning and securing the broken bones with pins, screws, or other hardware. Usually, ankle fracture surgery is followed by a progressive physical therapy program to enhance muscle support around the healed ankle bones and reduce the risk of ankle arthritis.

Prioritize Timely Medical Attention

If you have injured your ankle, you can receive specialized care at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Michels at our office near New Albany, IN.