The ankle is a joint that connects leg bones (the tibia and fibula) with a foot bone (talus), providing up-and-down movement, stability, and shock absorption for the foot. Ankle fractures typically occur when either or both of these leg bones break. Fractures are characterized as either stable (if talus moves normally), or unstable (if talus moves abnormally). To the average person, it can be hard to tell whether they are experiencing an ankle fracture or an ankle sprain—which occurs when the ligaments on the ankle are damaged. Some telltale signs of a fracture can be: a cracking sound when the injury occurs, numbness or tingling, pain over the ankle bone, or even a misshapen ankle. While both ailments are painful, an ankle fracture is much more serious. Consult with a podiatrist who will be able to diagnose the injury properly and provide necessary treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.