An ankle fracture is a very common injury in children and adults. A debilitating injury, broken or fractured ankles can sometimes be difficult to pinpoint, and some people may go weeks without knowing their ankle needs professional medical attention.
Ankle fractures are quite common among children between the ages of 8 and 15, this is due to the higher levels of activity associated with sudden movements that are prone to twisting ankles. Furthermore, with growth plates still shifting, it is important to identify if the ankle has indeed been fractured.
An X-ray is the ideal method for identifying where the bone placements are, if any changes are detrimental, and if indeed there needs to be further medical attention. Ankle fracture symptoms include:
- Tenderness
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Deformed or crooked appearance
- Inability to bear weight
- Pain when touched or moved
Because an ankle fracture, or even sprain, can limit mobility, it is critical to get to an orthopedic physician as soon as possible. Once an X-ray is completed, we can determine what type of treatment would be best, whether it be crutches, physical therapy, or a combination of treatments, it’s best to get help as soon as possible.
