Broken Ankle – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
Screening and Evaluation
Healthcare providers look at the ankle joint for any swelling, deformity, or bruising. They often check where the ankle is sore to find out which areas are most affected.
Severe pain, limited movement, and visible changes in the ankle may indicate fractures involving the tibia, fibula, or talus.
A doctor may gently move the foot or ask the person to walk to assess how the injury affects their gait and the stability and function of the joint. A physical examination is a key first step.
Providers check the lateral and medial malleolus—the bony parts on each side of the ankle—for redness, warmth, and signs of excessive pain or other symptoms that could suggest a more serious problem.
Diagnostic Tools
Once a broken ankle is suspected, health professionals use various imaging techniques to confirm the injury and plan treatment. Below is a summary of common tests:
| Test | Use |
|---|---|
| X-rays | Shows most fractures in the tibia, fibula, malleolus, or talus. Multiple angles are often taken. |
| Bone Scan | Highlights areas of bone damage or hidden stress fractures, especially if X-rays are unclear. |
| MRI scan | Displays fine details of bones and soft tissues, helpful in spotting injuries hidden on X-rays. |
| CT scan | Offers a clear cross-section of bones and joints, useful for complicated or severe ankle injuries. |
During the examination and tests, providers also check for potential complications, like arthritis or hidden soft tissue injuries.
Additional Details
People with a broken ankle might show clear bruising, swelling, and foot deformity. Some cases may require a stress test to check for subtle but important changes in ankle stability, especially if a ligament is torn.
Treatment
Medicines for Pain Relief
Doctors may suggest over-the-counter pain medicines like acetaminophen to help manage discomfort. Sometimes, a stronger pain medicine is given for severe pain.
Patients should follow the instructions and talk to a healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Movement and Muscle Recovery
After the bone heals, rehabilitation usually begins. Physical therapy teaches exercises to regain strength, improve flexibility, and help with balance.
A physical therapist may use methods like stretching and gentle movements. Patients might need crutches or a walker during this stage to avoid putting weight on the ankle.
Medical Procedures and Surgery
For some fractures, the doctor may need to realign the bones. This process, called closed reduction, uses medicine to help relax or numb the area.
Providers often keep the ankle still by using a cast, splint, or brace. Proper immobilization helps prevent improper healing or deformities.
If the injury is more serious, surgery might be needed. Surgeons use plates, screws, or pins to keep the bones in place. These parts may be taken out later if they cause problems.
Health professionals also watch out for rare risks, such as nerve damage or incomplete bone healing.
| Type | Purpose | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Immobilization | Helps the bone stay still. | Cast, splint, brace |
| Surgery | Repairs complex fractures. | Pins, plates, screws |
| Medication | Reduces pain. | Acetaminophen, others |
Getting Ready for Your Visit
Steps to Take Before Seeing a Doctor
Prepare some information in advance. Bring a list with these details:
- Symptoms and how they have changed.
- Any health conditions, such as diabetes or previous foot problems.
- A summary of family medical history, like parents’ or siblings’ foot issues.
- All current medications and supplements.
Write down questions for the doctor ahead of time. For example:
| Question | Purpose |
|---|---|
| What kinds of tests will I need? | Understand the evaluation process. |
| Are there different treatment options? | Learn about choices. |
| How long does a cast stay on? | Know about recovery. |
| Will surgery be necessary? | Find out if advanced care is needed. |
| Should I limit certain activities? | Plan daily routines. |
| Is seeing a podiatrist or specialist needed? | Seek expert advice. |
| Which pain relievers should I use? | Get recommendations for managing pain. |
Questions Your Provider Might Ask
The doctor will likely gather details to better understand the injury. Common questions include:
- What caused the ankle injury?
- Did the pain start all at once or over time?
- Have there been previous injuries to the area?
- Has there been a recent increase in exercise or other changes in activity level?
Clear answers help your healthcare provider decide on proper tests or referrals, such as orthopedic care.
Self-Care Actions Before the Appointment
While waiting to seek treatment, you can take steps to protect and care for the foot:
- Apply cold packs for 15–20 minutes, three or four times a day to manage swelling.
- Elevate the ankle to reduce swelling.
- Avoid putting weight on the affected foot.
- Wrap the ankle gently using a soft elastic bandage for slight compression.
