Ankle fractures are common orthopedic injuries that occur when one or more bones in the ankle break. They usually result from a fall, sports injury, or accident. If left untreated, an ankle fracture can lead to chronic pain and decreased mobility, so prompt evaluation is important. With proper treatment, most people make a full recovery and regain their normal level of mobility.
Treatment varies with the size and severity of the fracture. Minor, non-displaced fractures may heal with rest, ice, compression, and protection.
Non-surgical care
Surgical options
Our physicians recommend the most appropriate treatment after examining the injury and imaging.
The most common cause is a sudden force applied to the ankle. Common causes and risk factors include:
Falls
Tripping, missing a step, or falling from a height.
Sports injuries
Rolling or twisting the ankle in pivoting and jumping sports.
Car accidents
High-energy impact can cause complex fractures.
Osteoporosis
Weakened bones break more easily.
Twisting injuries
A sudden roll of the ankle inward or outward.
Repetitive stress
Overuse can cause stress fractures over time.
Recovery depends on the fracture and treatment, but most follow a similar progression.
Weeks 0 to 2
Protect and elevate
A splint, cast, or boot, with elevation to control swelling.
Weeks 2 to 6
Bone healing
Immobilization continues; weight bearing is advanced as your physician allows.
Weeks 6 to 12
Rehabilitation
Physical therapy restores motion, strength, and balance.
3 months and beyond
Return to activity
Gradual return to sports and full activity.
Timelines vary. Your physician will tailor your plan to the fracture and its treatment.
Both can cause pain, swelling, and bruising. A fracture is more likely with an inability to bear weight, tenderness directly over the bone, or a visible deformity. An X-ray confirms the diagnosis.
Some people can walk on a minor fracture, but walking on an unstable fracture can worsen the injury. Any ankle injury with significant pain or swelling should be examined.
No. Minor, non-displaced fractures often heal with a cast, boot, or brace. Surgery is needed when the bones are out of position or the ankle is unstable.
The bones are realigned and held in place with screws or plates while they heal. Minimally invasive procedures such as ankle arthroscopy may be used to assess and treat damage inside the joint.
Most ankle fractures take about six to eight weeks for the bone to heal, with several more weeks to months of rehabilitation to restore strength and motion.
An untreated or poorly healed fracture can lead to chronic pain, instability, decreased mobility, and early arthritis in the ankle.
People with osteoporosis, those who play high-impact or pivoting sports, and anyone with balance problems or a history of falls are at higher risk.
Our team diagnoses and treats ankle fractures in Melbourne, Orlando (Lake Nona), and Titusville. Request an appointment using the form on this page or call (321) 499-4646.
If you have sustained an ankle fracture, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
Hear our patients share their experience with us, All in their own words.
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Expert care for ankle injuries
Our physicians diagnose and treat all kinds of ankle conditions, including fractures.
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Care close to home in Melbourne, Orlando (Lake Nona), and Titusville.
