Ankle Fracture

Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Ankle Fractures

An ankle fracture is a break in one or more of the bones that form the ankle joint. These include the tibia, fibula, and talus. Fractures may be simple cracks in the bone or more complex breaks that involve multiple bones or extend into the joint.

Ankle fractures commonly occur from twisting injuries, falls, sports accidents, or direct trauma. Symptoms include sudden pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, difficulty bearing weight, and sometimes a visible deformity of the ankle.

There are several types of ankle fractures. These include medial or lateral malleolus fractures (involving either side of the ankle), bimalleolar or trimalleolar fractures (involving two or three of the ankle bones), pilon fractures (at the lower end of the tibia), and talus fractures (involving the bone that sits above the heel). Fractures may also be classified as displaced, where the bone is out of alignment, or nondisplaced, where the bone remains properly positioned.

Diagnosis is made with a physical exam and imaging such as X-rays or CT scans. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture. Stable fractures may be treated with a cast or walking boot, while displaced or unstable fractures often require surgery to realign and stabilize the bones with plates, screws, or rods.

Recovery can take several weeks to months depending on the severity of the fracture and treatment method. Physical therapy is often recommended after immobilization or surgery to restore movement, strength, and stability of the ankle. With proper treatment, most people can return to normal activity, though some may experience stiffness or a higher risk of arthritis after severe ankle fractures.