Ankle Fracture
A broken, or fractured, ankle is a common ankle condition that results when excessive stress, twisting, or trauma is placed on the ankle joint.
Your ankle joint is made up of three bones: the shinbone (tibia), the lower leg bone (fibula), and the ankle bone (talus). One or more of these bones can break during a fall or blow to your ankle. However, the most common type of broken ankle is a fracture in one of the knobby bumps (each called a malleolus) at the lower ends of the tibia and fibula. These bones help support the joint where your ankle bone connects to your heel bone, which allows your foot to rock from side to side. They’re often injured when your ankle rolls inward or outward.
Risk factors
Risk factors include:
- Obesity
- Participation in high-impact sports
- Use of faulty sports equipment or improper techniques
- Occupations that put you at risk of falling from a height
- Home environments that are cluttered or poorly lit
- Certain conditions such as osteoporosis or neuropathy
SSPT’s approach to treating ankle fractures
SSPT believes that any foot or ankle injury requires medical attention. Prompt realignment and treatment of any ankle or foot fracture is key to complete healing. Your SSPT physical therapy for an ankle fracture may include:
- Modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation
- Exercises to stretch, strengthen, and restore range of motion
- Education about behaviors that reduce the stress on your joints
Learn more about other foot and ankle conditions:
