A broken ankle or ankle fracture refers to a break or a hairline crack in any of the bones that make up the ankle. While rarely life-threatening, ankle fractures can be extremely painful. If you have fractured your ankle you may experience pain, swelling, bruising, deformity, numbness or tingling, limited ankle mobility, and an inability to bear weight on the affected ankle. In the case of an open fracture, you may see the broken bone poking through the skin. Ankle fractures require prompt medical attention. They are usually diagnosed through physical examination and imaging studies like X-rays. If you are suffering from the symptoms of a broken ankle, please seek the care of a podiatrist as soon as possible.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Anna Petrov from Family Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Wheeling and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.