Ankle and Foot Fractures

Ankle and Foot Fractures

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What is Ankle and Foot Fractures?

Ankle and foot fractures are common injuries, particularly in active individuals and older adults. These fractures can range from minor stress fractures to severe breaks requiring surgical intervention. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential to ensure full recovery and prevent complications such as arthritis or chronic pain. Early intervention by physiotherapists can play a crucial role in rehabilitation, helping patients regain mobility and strength.

Ankle and Foot Fractures Statistics

  • Ankle fractures: Occur in up to 174 cases per 100,000 persons annually, particularly common among adults.
  • Foot fractures: Less common than ankle fractures, but still a significant concern, especially in high-impact activities.
  • Source
  • Ankle and Foot Fractures Anatomy

  • Ankle Joint: Composed of the distal ends of the tibia, fibula, and the talus.
  • Stabilizing Structures:
    • Interosseous membrane
    • Tibiofibular ligaments (anterior, posterior, transverse)
    • Collateral ligaments (ATFL, CFL, PTFL, deltoid ligament)
  • Foot: Contains 26 bones, divided into hindfoot, midfoot, and forefoot.
  • Key Joints: Subtalar joint, Chopart joint, Lisfranc joint
  • Ankle and Foot Fractures
    Signs & Symptoms

  • Pain, particularly when bearing weight
  • Swelling and bruising
  • Difficulty or inability to walk
  • Visible deformity or difference in appearance
  • Reduced range of motion
  • Causes of Ankle and Foot Fractures

  • Trauma (e.g., falls, sports injuries)
  • Repetitive stress (leading to stress fractures)
  • High-impact accidents (e.g., car accidents, falls from height)
  • Risk Factors for Ankle and Foot Fractures

  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Obesity
  • Previous fractures or falls
  • Low bone mineral density (BMD)
  • High levels of physical activity
  • Female gender (postmenopausal bone loss)
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    Prevalence of Ankle and Foot Fractures

  • Ankle fractures are more common in younger males due to high activity levels.
  • Foot fractures are more prevalent in older adults, especially women post-menopause.
  • Assessment & Diagnosis of Ankle and Foot Fractures

  • Physical Examination: Palpation, range of motion tests, and observation.
  • Ottawa Rules: Guidelines to determine if X-rays are necessary.
  • Imaging: X-rays, Ultrasound for specific fractures.
  • Classification Systems: Danis-Weber, Lauge-Hansen, AO/OTA classifications used for diagnosis and treatment planning.
  • Rehabilitation & Physiotherapy for Ankle and Foot Fractures

  • Conservative management with immobilization for non-displaced fractures.
  • Rehabilitation post-cast removal, focusing on:
    • Ankle mobility exercises
    • Strengthening exercises
    • Weight-bearing exercises
    • Balance training
  • Manual therapy for pain relief and joint mobilization.
  • Home exercise programs for continued rehabilitation.
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    Ankle and Foot Fractures FAQs

    The recovery time for a broken ankle varies depending on the severity of the fracture. Generally, it takes about 6 weeks of immobilization followed by several months of rehabilitation to regain full function.

    Walking on a fractured ankle is generally not recommended, especially if the fracture is severe. In some cases, with minor fractures and proper support, limited weight-bearing may be allowed under medical supervision.

    Signs of a stress fracture in the foot include localized pain that worsens with activity, swelling, and tenderness over the affected area. Unlike acute fractures, stress fractures may develop gradually.