Fractures Specialist

What causes foot and ankle fractures?

Even though the foot carries your body weight, it is composed of very small and sensitive bones that can fracture easily. 

These bones are so sensitive that it doesn’t take a whole lot to precipitate a fracture. You may, for instance, crush, bend, stretch, or twist a bone out of its typical movement pattern and fracture it as a result. Generally, this happens when you fall, sprain your ankle, kick a hard object, and other accidents. 

In athletes or people who exert a lot of pressure on their feet regularly, stress fractures are very common. With stress fractures, the bones in your feet start to form clusters of small cracks as a result of repeated stress. People who run every day, gymnasts, and dancers are particularly prone to these types of injuries.

The same goes for ankle fractures, which occur anywhere in the ankle bone (talus) and the ends of your two leg bones where they meet the talus. 

Although the ankle is not composed of bones as fragile as those in the foot, any number of accidents can lead to an ankle fracture, including: 

• Rotating or twisting your ankle
• Rolling your ankle
• Acute impact following a fall
• Acute impact following an accident, like a car accident

Fractures are not always so obvious to identify, so get in touch with an expert at Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist to determine whether you experienced one. 

How do I know if I have a fracture?

Even though it is not always easy to detect a stress fracture, acute fractures exhibit immediate and noticeable symptoms. 

For example, you may experience sharp pain and the inability to put pressure on your foot in the moments, hours, and days following an accident. If this is the case, contact Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist immediately for prompt treatment. 

If you have not gotten into an accident but are experiencing some mild symptoms, consider staying vigilant and keep a close eye on the area. If you notice continuous bruising and swelling, and if you are in pain when you walk, talk to your podiatrist so you can get a diagnosis.

It is possible for you to be able to walk even with a fracture; that is why you need to stay vigilant to accompanying symptoms, like increased pain. Also, try to limit vigorous activities.

How do you treat a fracture?

The first thing to do if you experience a fracture is to cease all activity, elevate the foot, and ice it to reduce swelling. Make sure someone is with you to help you get around your home — you will want to keep your weight off your feet.

During your appointment at Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist, your podiatrist performs X-rays or CT scans to determine where the fracture is located and its severity. 

Your podiatrist may then recommend a cast or brace if the bones are still in alignment. However, if your fracture is open and the bones are displaced, your podiatrist may recommend surgery and cast to encourage your bones’ recovery. 

Foot and ankle fractures are serious and should be addressed immediately. Use the online booking tool or call Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist today to receive comprehensive and effective fracture care.