Ankle Fracture
Ankle fractures are a common injury that I specialize with in my pratice, both at the office and Emergency Room. They are usually the result of sports injuries, severe trauma, accidents, or some other mechanism that disrupts the integrity of the ankle joint. The ankle joint is held together by strong ligaments that allow the normal motion of the foot and ankle, as well as some flexibility needed for sports and other activities. When these ligaments give way, such as in a twisting motion or trauma, the ligaments tear, a fracture occurs in the bone, or both.
Symptoms include prolonged pain and swelling, inability to bear weight, noticeable deformity due to the fracture, or tenderness. X-rays are necessary to rule out a fracture and the extent of the damage. If the injury is minor, it may be treated with a soft cast, splint, or fiberglass cast to allow the bone and ligaments to heal correctly. Displaced fractures or torn ligaments usually require surgery to properly align the bone with plates and screws.
Foot Fracture
Injuries and accidents commonly result in fractures of one of the many bones in the foot. These are usually associated with a single mechanism, such as a sudden sports injury or car accident. Even subtle injuries, sprains, and dislocations can cause a fracture. Prolonged swelling and pain may indicate a possible fracture and need for proper treatment.
Stress fractures result from multiple repetitions of stress placed on a bone causing the bone to wear down and break. Many times people will complain of pain but are still able to function. X-rays may or may not indicate the stress fracture depending on the stage of the injury process. Further diagnostic tools such as a bone scan,
All fractures need basic elements to promote healing. If the fracture is dislocated or misaligned, surgery may be necessary to restore normal bone architecture, alignment, and bring the bones together. Mild fractures may be treated with immobilization casts, walking boots, or splints, depending on the severity of the fracture. My office specializes in treating these injuries and can determine the best treatment options.
Lower Leg Fracture
Traumatic fractures involving the lower leg and ankle are treated best with surgery to help restore proper realignment. If not treated correctly, they can shift the normal position of the ankle and foot and cause further damage. Even old fractures that have healed in a wrong position can be treated with realignment and corrective surgery. Sometimes lower leg fractures result in a decreased length in the bone which causes pain in the ankle joint, knee, hip and lower back. My goal is to properly reduce the fracture correctly soon after the injury. If there is an old fracture that causes problems, I consider conservative and surgical options to minimize pain and disability.
