When the ankle is severely twisted, one or more of the bones around the ankle may fracture (this is a “broken bone”). The pain, bruising and swelling which develops is similar to that seen in a severe sprain, and for this reason, minor fractures are sometimes missed initially.
The most common fracture seen is a break of the Fibula. Often this type of fracture only requires bandage support or immobilisation in a boot or cast, but occasionally surgery is required to fix the fracture. If there are two or three fractures around the ankle (bi- or tri-malleolar fracture), or if the ankle has dislocated, then usually prompt surgery is required.
If you think you have fractured your ankle, you should contact the clinic immediately, or your local A&E department, as you may well require an x-ray and treatment. With more severe fractures, the necessary course of action is usually obvious.
The outcome following surgery to fix an ankle fracture is usually good, but is worse with more severe fractures, or if there has been a long delay (more than 10 days or so) before surgery. Your surgeon will be able to advise you on which treatment is required, based on the x-ray appearances. |
