Ankle Fracture
An ankle fracture is a break in one or more bones around the ankle. An examination and imaging are often needed to distinguish it from a sprain.
About ankle fracture
An ankle fracture is a break in one or more bones around the ankle. An examination and imaging are often needed to distinguish it from a sprain.
What can cause it?
Ankle fractures may follow twisting, falling, sports injury, or direct impact.
Stress fractures and fractures related to weakened bone can occur with less obvious trauma.
What a patient may notice
Symptoms vary from person to person. Possible signs may include:
- Severe pain, swelling, or bruising
- Inability to bear weight
- Deformity or tenderness directly over a bone
How clinicians find the cause
A clinician checks deformity, tenderness, swelling, skin, blood flow, sensation, and ability to bear weight. X-rays confirm most fractures; CT or MRI may be used for complex or subtle injuries.
Treatment and next steps
- 1
Treatment may include a splint, cast, boot, reduction to restore alignment, or surgery.
- 2
Weight-bearing instructions depend on fracture stability and must be followed carefully.
- 3
Open fractures or compromised circulation need emergency treatment.
Supporting recovery
- Keep weight off the ankle until evaluated when fracture is possible.
- Support the ankle, elevate it, and apply wrapped ice for short periods.
- Do not attempt to straighten a deformed ankle.
What to expect
Most ankle fractures heal with appropriate protection, alignment, and follow-up, but recovery time depends on the bones involved, whether the fracture entered the joint, and whether surgery was needed. Many people require at least 6 to 10 weeks for bone healing followed by gradual rehabilitation to restore motion, strength, and balance.
Possible complications
- Delayed healing, failure to heal, or healing in an incorrect position
- Long-term stiffness, weakness, swelling, pain, or post-traumatic arthritis
- Skin, wound, nerve, circulation, blood-clot, or infection complications, particularly after a severe fracture or surgery
When to Contact a Medical Professional
A same-day medical evaluation is recommended, especially when symptoms are severe, worsening, or accompanied by fever, vomiting, weakness, or significant pain.
Go to the emergency department for an open wound over the bone, obvious deformity, numbness, or a pale, blue, or cold foot.Get emergency help for severe trouble breathing, new chest pressure, fainting, seizure, sudden weakness on one side, uncontrolled bleeding, blue or gray lips, or a person who is difficult to wake.
Ways to lower risk
- Use appropriate footwear and protective equipment.
- Build strength and balance and increase activity gradually.
- Discuss bone-health evaluation after a low-impact fracture.
Trusted health information
This CHS patient-education page uses original wording and links to MedlinePlus for additional information.