Comprehensive Care for Ankle Fractures in Louisville, KY

A common orthopedic injury, an ankle fracture is a crack or break in any of the three bones that make up the ankle joint, which are the two lower leg bones (tibia and fibula) and the ankle bone (talus). This hardworking joint plays a crucial role in stabilizing the body by adapting to various surfaces during ambulation. Therefore, a broken ankle can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life.

If you have injured your ankle, you can consult with Dr. Dawn M. Michels at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic in Louisville, Kentucky. Dr. Michels is a board-certified doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM) who specializes in foot and ankle conditions and emphasizes personalized care.

Recognizing Ankle Fracture Symptoms

An ankle fracture can occur suddenly due to a fall or direct blow, or it can develop gradually through repetitive stress, such as long-distance running. The key to effective treatment is recognizing the symptoms and seeking timely medical attention.

Some common signs of a broken ankle include:

• Immediate pain 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

Because a sprain—a less serious ligament injury—can produce similar symptoms, an accurate diagnosis is vital to determine the right treatment approach to ensure proper healing.

Ankle Fracture Treatment

Treatment for an ankle fracture can vary depending on the stability of the injury. Conservative therapy may be sufficient for a stable fracture in which the ends of the broken bone have not shifted out of alignment. Common options include:

• A boot or cast to immobilize and support the injured ankle
• Crutches to limit weight-bearing on the damaged joint
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to alleviate pain and swelling
• Targeted stretches and exercises to prevent stiffness and muscle weakness

On the other hand, if the fracture is unstable or more than one bone is broken, a surgical procedure may be considered to reposition the bones and secure them in place with pins, screws, or other hardware. Shortly after surgery, most patients begin a progressive physical therapy program to help build muscle support around the injured ankle.

Seek Timely Medical Attention

If you have injured your ankle and suspect that it might be broken, you can receive the specialized care you need at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Michels at our office in Louisville, KY.