Ankle Fracture: Learn to Identify, Treat and Prevent This Frequent and Painful Injury!

Ankle Fracture: Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention

To ankle fracture is one of the most common orthopaedic injuries and can seriously affect mobility and quality of life if not properly treated. The ankle, which supports the entire weight of the human body, is made up of three main bones: the tibia, fibula (or fibula) and astragalus - a structure that, despite being robust, is vulnerable to trauma.

In addition to sports accidents, falls and sprains, factors such as osteoporosis, obesity, sedentary lifestyles and even wearing unsuitable footwear can increase the risk of suffering a sprained ankle. ankle fracture. Recognising the signs and acting quickly is essential to ensure a full recovery.

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How Does an Ankle Fracture Happen?

To ankle fracture usually results from a twist, fall or direct impact, but even routine movements can cause the injury, especially if there is bone fragility. As the ankle is a fundamental joint for walking, running and balance, any fracture can significantly compromise these functions and require rigorous treatment.

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Ankle Fracture Symptoms

The signs of a ankle fracture are generally clear and include:

• Intense and immediate pain after trauma;

• Swelling and bruising in the area;

• Inability to bear weight on the affected foot;

• Visible deformity, in more severe cases;

• Limited movement due to pain and oedema.

In open fractures, the bone can pierce the skin, which requires urgent medical intervention.

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Treatment: Conservative or Surgical?

Conservative treatment

Conservative treatment is indicated in stable fractures without bone displacement and with ligament integrity. The ankle is immobilised with a plaster cast or orthopaedic boot for around six weeks. During this period, it is essential to control swelling, keep the limb elevated and apply ice to relieve pain, as well as gradually resuming weight-bearing under medical supervision.

Surgical Treatment

When ankle fracture has significant misalignment, instability or ligament damage, surgery is generally recommended. The most common technique is open reduction with internal fixation (ORIF), where the fractured bones are aligned and fixed with plates and screws, ensuring the stability needed for healing.

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Rehabilitation in Physiotherapy

Rehabilitation is an essential stage in the process of recovering from an illness. ankle fractureafter conservative or surgical treatment. The aim is to restore the mobility, strength, balance and functionality of the ankle through:

• Joint Mobilisation: exercises to prevent stiffness;

• Manual therapy: mobilisation and massage techniques to improve circulation;

• Muscle strengthening: strengthening the leg and foot muscles;

• Proprioceptive training: activities to improve balance and coordination;

• Functional Training: exercises adapted to daily activities and sports.

The duration of the process depends on the severity of the fracture and the body's response to treatment, and personalised follow-up by qualified professionals is essential.

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Possible complications

A ankle fracture poor treatment can lead to various complications, such as

• Post-traumatic arthritis, due to joint misalignment;

• Compartment syndrome, which compromises circulation and neuromuscular function;

• Infections, especially in open fractures or after surgery;

• Deep vein thrombosis, if there is prolonged immobilisation.

Rapid identification and appropriate treatment significantly reduce the risk of complications.

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How to Prevent Ankle Fractures?

Preventing a ankle fracture is possible through simple measures:

• Walk barefoot whenever possibleThe foot strengthens the foot muscles and improves balance;

• Muscle strengtheningexercises to strengthen the leg and ankle muscles;

• Proprioception trainingImproves body control and reduces the risk of falls;

• Wear suitable footwearComfortable, stable and suitable for the type of soil and activity;

• Maintaining bone healtha diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, regular exercise and control of diseases such as osteoporosis.

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Conclusion

To ankle fracture is an injury that requires attention and care because, as well as limiting mobility, it can lead to serious complications if not treated properly. Early diagnosis, individualised treatment and physiotherapy are essential for an effective and safe recovery.

If you suspect a ankle fractureDon't hesitate: go to a qualified health professional and follow all medical and rehabilitation recommendations. The right care at the right time makes all the difference in getting your life back to normal!

The mechanism of injury in an ankle sprain can be confused with a potential fracture. To find out more about sprains, read here: Ankle Sprain: Symptoms, Treatment and How to Prevent Recurrences.

If you're curious to learn more about this topic, here's an aclinical report article of a diaphyseal fracture of the tibia.