A fall, an accident, or a hard blow may cause one or more bones in the ankle to fracture (break). Depending on the type of injury, an ankle may fracture in several ways. Spiral fractures may result from twisting injuries. If bone pulls away from bone, the break is often straight. After a bad fall or a heavy blow, bone may be crushed. Although ankle fractures tend to cause pain, you may be able to walk on the ankle. However, this may not be a good idea. For the best recovery, have an injured ankle checked by a podiatrist.

Treatment depends on where and how badly your ankle has been broken. Your foot doctor will feel your ankle and foot for swelling and any displaced bones. He or she may also check to see if the ankle joint still moves. Depending on how the injury occurred, your podiatrist may examine your leg from the knee down. X-rays will probably be taken to show the type of break, its exact location, and the extent of damage.

After a fracture, a cast may be used to hold the bone in its proper position for healing. Sometimes the sections of broken bone must first be realigned. This is done by a process known as reduction. The type of reduction is based on how far the bone has moved from its normal position.

Once your ankle fracture has been treated, your podiatrist will tell you how to help it heal. You may be told to limit ankle use, take medications, and elevate the foot. If you have a cast, remember to keep it dry.

Protect your ankle by giving it enough time to heal. When you do become active again, expect some swelling and stiffness. To build strength and help avoid re-injury, your foot doctor may prescribe physical therapy or home exercise. Supporting the ankle also helps.