- Ice and Elevation
Swelling is almost universally seen following a broken ankle. An important part of treatment of an ankle fracture is to minimize swelling. Limiting swelling will help control the pain from the ankle fracture and minimize the damage to the surrounding tissues. - X-Rays
Most patients with an ankle fracture are seen in the doctors office or emergency room. The first step is to obtain X-rays to see what the fracture pattern is, how badly displaced the fracture is, and what the condition of the bone looks like. Depending on the appearance of the ankle fracture on X-ray, treatment decisions can be made. - Splint
Splinting an ankle fracture is commonly performed in the emergency room. A splint is often done for a few days, followed by a cast. The splint will allow more room than a cast in case there is continued swelling. If the ankle fracture is not badly displaced, the splint may be put on without moving the broken ankle. If there is displacement, a "reduction" will be performed. After being given anesthesia, the ankle fracture will be re-set to improve the alignment and displacement of the broken bones. - Cast
A cast is usually done after a few days, unless the swelling is minimal and it may be done early after the injury. A cast is made either of plaster or fiberglass. Plaster molds to the skin better, and is preferred if the cast is needed to hold the broken bone in a specific place. If the fracture is not unstable, or if some healing has taken place, a fiberglass cast may be used. The fiberglass is lighter weight and more resilient to wear. - Crutches
Crutches are important, because almost all types of ankle fractures will require some level of immobilization and rest following the injury. Sometime, patients will not be able to place any weight on the ankle for several months, other times within days to weeks. Determining when you can place weight on the broken ankle depends on the type of ankle fracture; this will have to be discussed with your doctor. - Surgery
Surgery is needed for many types of ankle fractures. While not always necessary, surgery for ankle fractures is not uncommon. The need for surgery depends on the appearance of the ankle joint on X-ray and the type of ankle fracture present. Achieving AND maintaining alignment of the broken ankle is of utmost importance. Arthritis is common after an ankle fracture, and the best way to reduce the risk of arthritis is to obtain a normal looking ankle joint. If surgery is needed to achieve this goal, your doctor may recommend an operation.
Information about treatment of a broken ankle
Ankle Fracture Treatment
By Jonathan Cluett, M.D., About.com Guide
Updated December 01, 2009
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board
The basic treatments of ankle fractures are described below. Again, anyone with a broken ankle must discuss their individual treatment plan with their doctor, but this outlines some of the basics of ankle fracture treatment:
More About Ankle Fractures
Other Ankle Injuries
Broken Ankle Treament
Top Related Searches types of ankle fractures ankle fracture plaster molds fracture pattern fracture treatment fiberglass cast
Explore Orthopedics
Must Reads
Most Popular
- About.com
- Health
- Orthopedics
- Broken Bones
- Foot & Ankle Fractures
- Broken Ankle Treatment - Ankle Fracture Treatment
Also from About.com:
©2013 About.com. All rights reserved.
