- Fracture of the ankles: causes
- Fractures of the ankles - symptoms
- Ankle fractures - treatment
- Fractures of the ankles - prophylaxis
Fractures of the ankle shin are considered the most common bone injuries of the musculoskeletal system. Ankles - The tibia and fibula connect the knee joint to the ankle joint. How does ankle fracture happen and how is it treated? When is surgery necessary?
Fracture of the shin anklesmay include: fracture of one ankle, most often lateral, fracture of both ankles (lateral and medial), triangular fractures where, in addition to both ankles, the fracture includes the posterior edge of the tibia.
Fracture of the ankles: causes
The main cause of fractures is shin trauma. It may be the result of a fall, impact or twisting of the leg. Other causes are: old age, osteoporosis, bumps on the bones, contact sports (football, volleyball), damage related to a car accident or skiing
Fractures of the ankles - symptoms
The main symptom is pain in the ankle joint and joint swelling. There is a bruise at the fracture site and there is limited mobility in the knee or ankle. In such a situation, it is best to immediately contact a doctor who will thoroughly examine the leg and, if necessary, perform imaging tests - x-rays or computed tomography.
Ankle fractures - treatment
If there is a bone fracture, the intervention of a surgeon who will assemble the bone and keep it in the correct position is necessary. The surgeon's management depends on the type of fracture. To immobilize the leg, among others, a plaster cast, screws, as well as screws and a metal plate are used. Displaced ankle fractures require surgery - the anatomical surface of the joint must be reconstructed and internal fracture stabilization performed. After surgery, rehabilitation is often required to regain full fitness. The recovery time after an ankle fracture is several weeks, and even months if the fracture has been open.
Fractures of the ankles - prophylaxis
In order to prevent fracture of the ankles, special care should be taken, especially when playing sports (remember about special ankle protectors). It is good to have adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D in our diet.