One common ankle injury is an avulsion fracture. This occurs when a ligament or tendon tears off a portion of the bone. An avulsion fracture is commonly the result of a trauma or fall. While some avulsion fractures may require surgery, that determination depends on how far the bone fragment is pulled from the rest of the bone. Falling on the pavement or ice, turning too quickly, or even getting hit by a baseball can cause an avulsion fracture. Symptoms of an avulsion fracture include sharp pain in the fractured joint, especially if you try to move it. Other symptoms are swelling, bruising, and limited mobility. The severity of an avulsion fracture is generally determined by taking an X-ray. Treatment will depend on the extent of the injury, ranging from rest and elevation and strengthening exercises to surgery. In some cases, pins may need to be used to stabilize the joint and hasten recovery. In more serious injuries, a cast may be required. If you have injured your ankle, please visit a podiatrist as soon as possible for immediate treatment. 

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.