Ankle Fracture Treatment in Miami & Doral, Florida
Ankle Fracture
The ankle joint is formed by three bones-the tibia, fibula, and talus-which come together to allow stable and smooth movement of the foot. The lower ends of the tibia and fibula form the medial and lateral malleoli, the bony prominences on each side of the ankle. These structures are supported by ligaments, tendons, and a joint capsule filled with synovial fluid that enables normal ankle motion.
Ankle injuries are common and may occur during sports, work-related activities, or everyday accidents. While some ankle injuries involve ligament damage (ankle sprains), others result in fractures-breaks in one or more bones of the ankle joint. Ankle fractures are often associated with injury to surrounding ligaments and soft tissues, which can affect stability and long-term function.
Causes
Ankle fractures most commonly occur as a result of twisting, rolling, or rotational forces applied to the ankle. These injuries often happen during falls, sports activities, motor vehicle accidents, or work-related trauma. Even relatively low-energy injuries can result in fractures, depending on bone quality and ankle position at the time of injury.
Symptoms
Symptoms of an ankle fracture may include:
- Immediate pain at the time of injury
- Swelling and bruising around the ankle
- Difficulty or inability to bear weight
- Limited range of motion
- Visible deformity in severe fractures
- In open fractures, bone may protrude through the skin
Blood may collect within the joint (hemarthrosis), contributing to swelling and stiffness.
Types of Ankle Fractures
Ankle fractures are classified based on the bones involved and the stability of the joint:
- Lateral malleolus fracture - fracture of the outer ankle bone (fibula)
- Medial malleolus fracture - fracture of the inner ankle bone (tibia)
- Posterior malleolus fracture - fracture of the back portion of the tibia
- Bimalleolar fracture - fractures involving both the medial and lateral malleoli
- Trimalleolar fracture - fractures involving the medial, lateral, and posterior malleoli
- Syndesmotic injury (high ankle injury) - injury to the ligaments connecting the tibia and fibula, which may occur with or without fracture and often requires surgical stabilization
Diagnosis
Diagnosis begins with a thorough history and physical examination by an orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon. X-rays are obtained to identify fractures and assess alignment and joint stability. In certain cases, stress X-rays may be performed to evaluate ligament integrity and determine whether the ankle is stable.
CT scans are often used for complex fractures to better define fracture patterns and guide surgical planning. MRI may be recommended when ligament, cartilage, or tendon injury is suspected.
Treatment
Initial care following an ankle injury includes rest, ice, elevation, and immobilization until formal evaluation is completed.
Treatment of ankle fractures depends on the fracture pattern, degree of displacement, and stability of the ankle joint.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Stable fractures without significant displacement may be treated non-surgically. This involves careful immobilization in a medical boot for several weeks, followed by gradual return to weight-bearing.
Surgical Treatment
Unstable or displaced fractures typically require surgical treatment to restore proper alignment and ankle stability. Surgery involves repositioning the fractured bones and securing them with plates, screws, or other fixation devices. Accurate restoration of joint alignment is critical to reduce the risk of long-term complications such as post-traumatic arthritis.
After surgery, the ankle is protected with a splint or cast while healing begins.
Post-Operative Care
Recovery following ankle fracture treatment varies based on fracture severity and treatment method. Common post-treatment instructions include:
- Avoiding weight-bearing for several weeks as directed
- Using crutches or a walker for mobility
- Elevating the ankle to reduce swelling
- Taking prescribed medications for pain and inflammation
- Beginning physical therapy to restore motion, strength, and balance
Most patients gradually return to normal daily activities over several months, though full recovery may take longer in more complex injuries.
Risks and Complications
Potential complications following ankle fractures include:
- Improper bone healing or malalignment
- Joint stiffness or chronic pain
- Nerve irritation or damage
- Infection (in surgical cases)
- Development of post-traumatic ankle arthritis
Careful diagnosis, precise treatment, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols help minimize these risks.
Why Choose Alejandro Pino, MD for Ankle Fracture Care?
Dr. Alejandro Pino is a fellowship-trained orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon with extensive experience treating both simple and complex ankle fractures. He understands that ankle fracture care is not just about healing the bone-it is about restoring alignment, joint stability, and longterm ankle function.
Dr. Pino takes a meticulous approach to fracture evaluation and treatment, recognizing subtle instability and ligament injuries that, if left unaddressed, can lead to chronic pain or arthritis. Whether treating fractures non-surgically or surgically, his focus is on precise alignment and durable recovery.
Patients choose Dr. Pino because of his:
- Fellowship training in orthopedic foot and ankle surgery
- Expertise in complex and unstable ankle fractures
- Emphasis on joint preservation and long-term outcomes
- Careful surgical planning and attention to alignment
- Clear communication and individualized recovery guidance
Dr. Pino's goal is to help patients return safely to activity while minimizing the risk of long-term ankle problems.
