Ankle Fractures

Ankle fractures are breaks in one or more of the ankle bones, ranging from mild cracks to severe injuries. At Prime Foot and Ankle Care in South Brunswick, New Jersey, Nrupa Shah, DPM, uses in-office X-rays and tailored treatment plans to diagnose and treat fractures effectively. Whether care involves casting or advanced surgical repair, patients receive clear communication and ongoing guidance throughout their treatment. Call Prime Foot and Ankle Care or request a consultation online today for expert ankle fracture treatment.

What is an ankle fracture?

An ankle fracture occurs when one or several bones in the ankle joint break. The ankle is a complex joint made up of the tibia, fibula, and talus, so a fracture can range from a small hairline crack to a severe break that causes the bones to shift out of place.

At Prime Foot and Ankle Care, Dr. Shah specializes in diagnosing and treating ankle fractures of all types, providing both conservative and advanced surgical options.

How do ankle fractures usually happen?

Ankle fracture injuries are often the result of high-impact trauma such as a fall, sports accident, or car crash. They can also occur from something as simple as twisting the ankle on uneven ground.

Athletes, older adults, and individuals with weakened bones from conditions like osteoporosis or diabetes are at greater risk of ankle fractures.

What symptoms are typical of ankle fractures?

The most common symptoms of an ankle fracture include:

• Sudden and intense pain
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Difficulty standing or walking

In some cases, patients hear a “pop” or “snap” at the moment of injury. The ankle may look deformed or shifted out of place with more severe fractures.

How are ankle fractures diagnosed and treated?

Ankle fracture diagnosis begins with a thorough physical exam to check for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion.

To confirm the diagnosis, Dr. Shah uses in-office digital X-rays to see the break clearly and determine its severity. Having X-rays on-site allows patients to get answers quickly and begin treatment without delay.

Ankle fracture treatment depends on the location and severity of the fracture. For stable fractures, immobilization with a cast, splint, or walking boot may be all that’s needed, along with rest, ice, compression, and elevation.

Severe or unstable fractures often require surgery. Dr. Shah uses cutting-edge techniques to restore alignment and stability so the ankle can heal properly.

What is recovery like after an ankle fracture?

Recovery from an ankle fracture typically takes several weeks to months. Patients may need crutches or a walker during the initial healing phase. Once the bone begins to heal, physical therapy helps rebuild strength, restore balance, and improve flexibility.

At Prime Foot and Ankle Care, the goal is not just to heal the bone but also to help patients return to their normal activities with lasting strength and stability. Call the office to request an urgent evaluation of ankle fracture symptoms or request an appointment online today.