What to Expect If You Have a Broken Ankle

The sudden pain and trauma of a broken ankle is an overwhelming experience. You can't walk or even move without hurting, and you may be starting to panic about what this means for your future.

Our podiatrists want you to know that it is possible to make a full recovery from a broken ankle. We are here to walk you through your treatment, helping you prepare for each step in the process until you're back on your feet!

Treatments and Recovery for Ankle Fractures

Fractures are a common type of podiatry injury and are usually caused by repetitive strain or sudden trauma to the ankle joint. The first thing all patients should do if they suspect a broken ankle is to have the injury diagnosed and evaluated by a medical professional. X-rays can show the break's location and the extent of the damage, allowing your podiatrist to devise the most effective treatment plan.

While every injury is different, most recoveries involve:

• Casting. Immobilization is key to healing. Once we determine the type of ankle fracture, we must ensure that the broken ends of your fractured bone are aligned correctly so that they will knit back together without complications. When the bones are in position, your ankle will be put in a cast or boot to hold the bones in place as you heal.
• Limited activity. Although your foot is immobilized, the affected ankle will not be strong enough to bear your weight for several weeks. In the meantime, you may need to use crutches, a knee scooter, or other walking aids to get around. You should also get plenty of rest and refrain from any exercises that could make the injury worse.
• Physical therapy. Once the cast or boot has been removed, you will likely need physical therapy to retrain the foot to bear weight and regain flexibility in the ankle. Our team can advise you on the proper exercises to restore strength and range of motion in the ankle joint.

If you have suffered an injury in your feet or ankles, the specialists at Greater Washington Advanced Podiatry are here to help. We offer free initial consultations and create a customized treatment plan to get you up and walking as soon as possible. Simply fill out our online contact form or call us at (301) 515-FEET to set up your first visit.