Ankle Fracture Specialist in Houston, Lake Jackson, Kingwood, TX
Ankle fracture is a condition where there is a break in one or more bones forming the ankle joint. It occurs from excessive rolling and twisting of the ankle often resulting in swelling, severe pain around the ankle and impaired mobility. All American Orthopedic provides expert diagnosis and individualized non-operative and operative treatments for ankle fractures in Houston, Lake Jackson, Kingwood, TX. Contact All American Orthopedic’s team for an appointment today!
An ankle fracture can cause severe pain, swelling, and instability, making it difficult to walk or bear weight. At All American Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute, our fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons provide comprehensive ankle fracture treatment using personalized care plans and advanced surgical and non-surgical techniques. Serving Houston, Clear Lake, Lake Jackson, and Kingwood, we are committed to restoring ankle stability, relieving pain, and helping you safely return to your daily activities.
What is an Ankle Fracture?
Ankle injuries are very common in athletes and individuals performing physical work; often resulting in severe pain and impaired mobility. Pain after ankle injuries can either be from a torn ligament (ankle sprain) or broken bone (ankle fracture).
An ankle fracture is a painful condition where there is a break in one or more bones forming the ankle joint. The ankle joint is stabilized by different ligaments and other soft tissues, which may also be injured during an ankle fracture.
What is the Normal Ankle Anatomy?
The ankle joint is composed of three bones: The tibia, fibula, and talus, which articulate together. The ends of the fibula and tibia (lower leg bones) form the inner and outer malleolus, which are the bony protrusions of the ankle joint that you can feel and see on either side of the ankle. The joint is protected by a fibrous membrane called a joint capsule and filled with synovial fluid to enable smooth movement.
What are the Common Causes of Ankle Fractures?
Ankle fractures can occur from excessive rolling and twisting of the ankle - usually from an accident or activities such as jumping or falling, which cause sudden stress to the joint.
What are the Symptoms of an Ankle Fracture?
With an ankle fracture, there is immediate swelling and pain around the ankle as well as impaired mobility. In some cases, blood may accumulate around the joint - a condition called hemarthrosis. In the case of a severe fracture, deformity around the ankle joint is clearly visible where a bone may protrude out piercing the skin.
What are the Types of Ankle Fractures?
Ankle fractures are classified according to their location. The different types of ankle fractures are:
- Lateral malleolus fracture, in which the lateral malleolus, the outer part of the ankle, is fractured
- Medial malleolus fracture, in which the medial malleolus, the inner part of the ankle, is fractured
- Posterior malleolus fracture, in which the posterior malleolus, the bony hump of the tibia, is fractured
- Bimalleolar fractures, in which both lateral and medial malleolus bones are fractured
- Trimalleolar fractures, in which all three lateral, medial and posterior bones are fractured
How is an Ankle Fracture Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of an ankle injury begins with a review of your history and a thorough physical examination. This is followed by X-rays and CT scan of the injured area to obtain a detailed view.
In some cases, pressure is applied on the ankle and then special X-rays are taken. This procedure is called a stress test. This test is ordered to determine the stability of the fracture under stress and decide on the need for surgery. In complex cases where a detailed evaluation of the ligaments is required, an MRI scan is recommended.
What are the Treatment Options for Ankle Fractures?
Immediately following an ankle injury and prior to seeing a doctor, you should apply ice packs and keep the foot elevated to minimize pain and swelling. The treatment of an ankle fracture depends upon the type and the stability of the fractured bone. Treatment starts with non-surgical methods, and in cases where the fracture is unstable and cannot be realigned, surgical methods are employed.
For non-surgical treatment, the ankle bone is realigned and special splints or a plaster cast is placed around the joint for at least 2-3 weeks to allow the bones to heal.
With surgical treatment, the fractured bone is accessed by making an incision over the ankle area and then specially designed plates are screwed onto the bone to realign and stabilize the fractured parts. The incision is then sutured closed and the operated ankle is immobilized with a splint or cast.
What is the Postoperative Care for an Ankle Fracture?
After ankle surgery, you will be instructed to avoid applying weight on the ankle and advised using crutches while walking for at least six weeks.
Physical therapy of the ankle joint will be recommended by your doctor. After 2-3 months of therapy, you may be able to perform daily normal activities.
What are the Risks and Complications of an Ankle Fracture Treatment?
The risks and complications that can occur with ankle fracture treatment include improper casting or improper alignment of the bones which can cause deformities and eventually arthritis. In some cases, pressure exerted on the nerves can cause nerve damage, resulting in severe pain.
Rarely, surgery may result in incomplete healing of the fracture, which requires another surgery for repair.
If you would like to have additional information on the treatment of ankle fractures, please contact All American Orthopedic, serving the communities of Houston, Lake Jackson, Kingwood, TX.
Why Choose All American Orthopedic Surgeons for Ankle Fracture Treatment in Houston, Lake Jackson & Kingwood?
An ankle fracture requires prompt evaluation to ensure proper healing and restore normal function. At All American Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute, our fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons provide expert diagnosis and comprehensive treatment for simple and complex ankle fractures. Whether your injury resulted from a fall, sports activity, or an accident, we create individualized treatment plans designed to relieve pain, stabilize the ankle, and help you recover safely.
Patients choose our orthopedic team because we offer:
- Fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons experienced in foot and ankle injuries
- Comprehensive evaluations with advanced imaging when appropriate
- Personalized treatment plans for stable, displaced, and complex ankle fractures
- Advanced surgical techniques when fracture stabilization is necessary
- Non-surgical treatment options, including casting, bracing, and immobilization for appropriate injuries
- Coordinated rehabilitation programs to restore strength, flexibility, and balance
- Convenient office locations in Houston (Clear Lake), Lake Jackson, and Kingwood
Our goal is to restore ankle function, minimize complications, and help you return to work, sports, and everyday activities with confidence.
Ankle Fracture FAQs
What is an ankle fracture?
An ankle fracture is a break in one or more of the bones that make up the ankle joint, including the tibia, fibula, or talus. Fractures can range from small, stable breaks to more complex injuries involving multiple bones and ligament damage.
What are the symptoms of an ankle fracture?
Common symptoms include immediate pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, difficulty bearing weight, and, in some cases, visible deformity around the ankle. Because these symptoms can resemble a severe ankle sprain, a medical evaluation is important for an accurate diagnosis.
How is an ankle fracture diagnosed?
Your orthopedic surgeon will perform a physical examination and typically obtain X-rays to determine the location and severity of the fracture. In some cases, a CT scan may be recommended to better evaluate complex fractures and assist with treatment planning.
Will I need surgery for an ankle fracture?
Not every ankle fracture requires surgery. Stable fractures may heal with immobilization in a cast or walking boot, while displaced or unstable fractures often require surgery to restore proper alignment and stability. Your treatment will depend on the type and severity of your injury.
How long does it take an ankle fracture to heal?
Healing times vary depending on the severity of the fracture and whether surgery is required. Most fractures require several weeks for the bone to heal, followed by rehabilitation to restore strength, flexibility, and normal function. More complex injuries may require a longer recovery period.
Will I need physical therapy?
Yes. Physical therapy is often recommended after an ankle fracture to improve range of motion, rebuild strength, restore balance, and help you safely return to your normal activities.
When can I return to sports or work?
Your return to work, sports, or other physical activities depends on the severity of your injury, the treatment performed, and your progress during rehabilitation. Your orthopedic surgeon will guide your recovery and recommend when it is safe to resume specific activities.
Get Expert Care for Ankle Fractures at All American Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute
An ankle fracture should never be ignored. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help restore ankle stability, reduce the risk of long-term complications, and promote a successful recovery. The fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons at All American Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute provide comprehensive care for ankle fractures, from diagnosis and conservative treatment to advanced surgical repair and rehabilitation.
With convenient locations in Houston (Clear Lake), Lake Jackson, and Kingwood, expert orthopedic care is always close to home. Contact All American Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute today to schedule your consultation and learn more about your treatment options for an ankle fracture.
