Ankle Fracture Treatment In San Antonio
What is an Ankle fracture?
Ankle fractures are a common injury, especially among athletes and active individuals. Whether from a sudden twist, fall, or direct impact, a fractured ankle can significantly impact your mobility and daily life. Dr. Jeremy Rush, a dual-fellowship trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine and pediatric orthopedics, is here to help patients in San Antonio recover quickly and return to the activities they love.
An ankle fracture occurs when one or more bones in the ankle joint break. This injury can range from a small crack in the bone to a complete break that causes the bone to move out of place. The ankle joint consists of three main bones:
Tibia (shinbone)
Fibula (smaller bone in the lower leg)
Talus (bone that sits between the heel bone and the tibia and fibula)
Fractures can occur in any of these bones, affecting stability and movement.
Common Causes of Ankle Fractures
Ankle fractures often result from:
Sports injuries: High-impact sports like basketball, soccer, or football can lead to ankle fractures, especially from twists, falls, or collisions.
Falls: Landing awkwardly on the ankle after a jump or fall can cause a break.
Car accidents: The force of a collision can result in severe fractures to the ankle.
Twisting injuries: A sudden change in direction or stepping on an uneven surface can cause the ankle to roll and fracture.
Symptoms of an Ankle Fracture
If you’ve sustained an ankle fracture, you may experience the following symptoms:
Intense pain immediately after the injury
Swelling around the ankle joint
Bruising or discoloration
Inability to bear weight on the injured foot
Visible deformity in more severe fractures
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it's important to seek medical attention right away for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Ankle Fractures
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Immobilization
A cast, boot, or brace may be used to keep the ankle stable and allow the bones to heal properly.
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Physical Therapy
After the bone heals, physical therapy helps restore strength, flexibility, and mobility.
Surgical Treatment Options for Ankle Fractures
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Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF)
Dr. Rush may use metal plates, screws, or rods to hold the bones in place while they heal.
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Post-Surgical Care
After surgery, rehabilitation through physical therapy is crucial to regain strength and function in the ankle.
Returning to Sports After an Ankle Fracture
The general timeline for returning to sports can range from several weeks to several months. Here’s what to expect during the recovery phases:
Initial Healing (6-8 Weeks): For most ankle fractures, the bones take 6-8 weeks to heal. During this time, weight-bearing is often limited or restricted entirely to ensure proper healing.
Physical Therapy (4-12 Weeks): After the bones have healed, physical therapy focuses on restoring strength, flexibility, and balance in the ankle. Exercises will be designed to improve range of motion and strengthen the muscles around the ankle.
Return to Sports (3-6 Months): Most athletes can expect to return to non-contact sports within 3-6 months, depending on their sport and position. High-impact sports, such as basketball or soccer, may take longer.
FAQs about Ankle Fractures
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To diagnose an ankle fracture, Dr. Rush will conduct a physical examination and review your symptoms. X-rays are typically used to confirm the break and assess the severity. In complex cases, additional imaging like a CT scan or MRI may be needed.
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The recovery time depends on the severity of the fracture. For most patients, it can take:
6 to 8 weeks for the bones to heal
3 to 6 months before returning to full activities, including sports Physical therapy will likely be part of the recovery process to restore strength and mobility.
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Delaying treatment or not treating an ankle fracture can lead to complications such as:
Chronic pain
Arthritis in the ankle joint
Permanent instability or deformity Early treatment is essential for a full recovery and to avoid long-term issues.
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To reduce the risk of ankle fractures:
Wear appropriate footwear for your activities, especially during sports
Strengthen the muscles around your ankle with regular exercises
Warm up before physical activities to improve flexibility and stability
Be cautious on uneven surfaces to avoid twisting or rolling your ankle
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It can be difficult to differentiate between a sprained and fractured ankle based on symptoms alone, as both injuries can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. However, a fracture often causes:
More intense pain right after the injury
Inability to bear any weight on the foot
A visible deformity or misalignment of the ankle
Bruising that appears rapidly An X-ray or other imaging is the best way to confirm whether it's a fracture or a sprain.
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Pain management after an ankle fracture typically involves:
Resting and elevating the ankle to reduce swelling
Ice therapy to control inflammation
Pain relievers, such as over-the-counter medications (ibuprofen or acetaminophen)
If necessary, Dr. Rush may prescribe stronger medications for severe pain. It's important to follow the pain management plan recommended by your doctor to avoid complications and promote healing.
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Yes, physical therapy is often an important part of the recovery process after an ankle fracture. It helps:
Strengthen the muscles around the ankle
Restore flexibility and range of motion
Improve balance and prevent future injuries Dr. Rush will work with your physical therapist to develop a customized rehabilitation program to get you back to your regular activities.
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Not all ankle fractures require surgery. Non-surgical treatment, such as casting or bracing, may be appropriate for minor fractures where the bones are still aligned. However, surgical intervention may be necessary for more severe fractures where the bones are displaced or unstable.
Meet Dr. Jeremy Rush
Dr. Jeremy K. Rush, MD, FAAP, is San Antonio's only orthopedic surgeon who is Dual-Fellowship Trained in pediatric orthopedic surgery and sports medicine. He specializes in arthroscopic surgery of the knee, shoulder, elbow, and ankle, as well as the treatment of fractures and other injuries in young athletes.