An ankle fracture requires the attention of a skilled medical specialist to ensure your bone heals correctly. If you have pain, swelling, or other symptoms of an ankle fracture, you can rely on the team at C&S Foot and Ankle. Camille Christensen, DPM, and Scott Norris, DPM, provide diagnostic imaging tests in-office to quickly confirm an ankle fracture, so you can get the treatment you need. They offer both nonsurgical and surgical interventions to repair fractures and prevent additional complications. Call the office in McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, or schedule a consultation online today.

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What is an ankle fracture?

An ankle fracture describes a broken bone in the ankle joint. You can experience an ankle fracture after a fall or from a direct blow to the ankle joint.

Closed ankle fractures describe broken bones that don’t break through the skin. If you have an open fracture, you may notice the bone protruding through a wound in the skin.

Older people and those with weight challenges or underlying medical conditions like osteoporosis may also develop stress fractures. Stress fractures are small cracks in the bone that develop from excess weight or pressure from repetitive activities.

When should I seek treatment for an ankle fracture?

Symptoms of an ankle fracture can include pain, swelling, bruising, and limited range of motion in the ankle soon after a fall or other injury. If you have an open fracture and can see your bone sticking out from your skin, seek immediate medical attention at the nearest hospital.

When you’re unsure whether you have a fracture, you should immediately get off your feet and elevate your ankle. Applying ice can minimize swelling and bruising until you can meet with the team at C&S Foot and Ankle.

If left untreated, an ankle fracture can become more painful and limit what you can do physically. Untreated fractures can also develop into joint deformities that are more difficult to treat.

The foot and ankle specialists use on-site imaging technologies to confirm an ankle fracture and assess its severity. They use your testing results and a physical exam to determine which treatment is right for you.

How is an ankle fracture treated?

A minor ankle fracture or stress fracture may not require surgery. The C&S Foot and Ankle team may apply a bandage or a cast to stabilize your ankle joint and support the natural healing of your bone.

If your ankle fracture is more serious, you may need surgery to remove bone fragments and realign the bones of the ankle joint. Your surgeon may also insert metal plates, rods, or screws into the joint to hold your bones together, so they can heal properly.

You may need to wear a cast or use crutches or a cane for several weeks or months until your bones heal fully. The team continues to monitor your healing process and can determine when it’s safe for you to put weight on your ankle and return to your usual activities.

Call C&S Foot and Ankle to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for symptoms of an ankle fracture, or book an appointment online today.