What are Foot and Ankle Fractures?
There are 26 bones in each foot and ankle, all of which undergo a significant amount of strain and pressure as you move throughout the day. When bones receive more force than they can endure, they can break, or fracture.
Our Providers use the latest technology to diagnose and treat all types of foot and ankle fractures, from stress fractures to severe breaks that require surgery.
If your foot or ankle fracture involves an open wound or piece of bone that pokes through the skin, go to an emergency room immediately. Open fractures have a high risk of infection.
How Do I Know if I Have a Foot or Ankle Fracture?
It may be tempting to assume your foot or ankle injury is a simple sprain and avoid seeking treatment. Foot and ankle fractures and sprains share similar signs and symptoms, including:
- Severe pain that starts immediately after the injury
- Swelling, redness, or bruising
- Reduced range of motion
- Difficulty walking on the injured foot
A fracture may also cause a visible deformity, or make the bones and joints appear out-of-place. Don’t attempt to self-diagnose your foot or ankle injury. It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment from our Providers as soon as possible.
How are Foot and Ankle Fractures Diagnosed and Treated?
First, your provider evaluates your overall condition and asks you to describe how the injury occurred. They may take imaging tests to confirm or rule out a foot or ankle fracture. Our Providers offer comprehensive diagnostic services, including on-site digital X-rays.
Then, we create an individualized treatment plan based on the severity of your injury. Less severe foot and ankle fractures typically require immobilization, such as a cast, for about 6-8 weeks. After immobilization, we recommend a physical therapy program to restore strength and mobility.
More complex or unstable fractures may need surgery. Our skilled foot and ankle surgeons surgically reposition your bones and may use screws or rods to hold them in place as they heal. After the bone heals, you start physical therapy.
For expert diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle fractures, call us or book an appointment online today.
FAQs
There are 26 bones in each foot and ankle, all of which undergo a significant amount of strain and pressure as you move throughout the day. When bones receive more force than they can endure, they can break, or fracture.
Foot and ankle fractures and sprains share similar signs and symptoms, including severe pain that starts immediately after the injury, swelling, redness, or bruising.
First, your provider evaluates your overall condition and asks you to describe how the injury occurred. They may take imaging tests to confirm or rule out a foot or ankle fracture. Our Providers offer comprehensive diagnostic services, including on-site digital X-rays.
