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foot and ankle fractures

Any bone in the foot can become fractured. Some of the most commonly fractured bones are the metatarsal bones, especially the 5th metatarsal bone, often resulting in an injury called the Jones Fracture. Often Jones fractures are surgical, especially in athletes. Just as in the ankle, foot fractures may fall into non-displaced, mildly displaced, or displaced. Any fracture greater than 2mm is often displaced and needs surgical intervention. X-rays are necessary for proper diagnosis and treatment. Offloading in terms of conservative care includes CAM boots, casts, splints, and surgical options include ORIF to place the two fractured bones back together with pins, screws, and or plates. This hardware can remain in the foot and ankle unless there is pain, at which time it can be taken out.

Foot and Ankle Fractures (FAQs)

How can you break your foot or ankle?
The most common ways that people fracture their foot or ankle bones are sudden, high impact injuries, such as a direct blow to the foot or ankle while playing sports, or stress fractures, which are tiny cracks in the bones that occur due to repetitive overuse. Symptoms of a possible fracture include throbbing pain that worsens with activity, bruising, redness, swelling, tenderness, difficulty walking, and difficulty bearing weight. There may also be foot or ankle deformity due to bones moving out of alignment, or in very severe cases, poking through the skin.
How are foot and ankle fractures treated?
The treatment for your fracture will depend on the type of fracture and the extent of the injury. Milder stress fractures may be treated through activity and footwear modifications, icing the affected foot or ankle, taking medications to relieve pain, and keeping weight off of the injured leg while it heals. More severe fractures may require surgery or immobilization with a cast, brace, or boot.
How long does it take for a foot or ankle fracture to heal?
Recovery time will depend on the type and severity of the fracture. Generally, it may take 4 to 6 weeks for a fracture to heal. If the fracture is severe, it can take longer. For optimal recovery, it is suggested that you follow home care instructions provided by your doctor.
Can you still walk with a broken foot or ankle?
With a broken foot or ankle, you will likely experience some degree of difficulty walking. You will probably be able to walk with a milder injury, although resting the injured foot or ankle as much as possible is strongly suggested. With a more severe injury, walking may be impossible for several weeks to months as your injury heals. Your injured leg may be in a cast or other immobilizing device and you might need crutches or another mobility aid to get around until you recover.

 

Advanced Podiatric Procedures & Services in Wayne, NJ 07470, Paramus, NJ 07652, Clifton, NJ 07012, Montclair, NJ 07042 and Edison, NJ 08817