Ankle Fractures (Broken Ankle) – Understanding Bone Injury and Recovery
Overview
An ankle fracture is more than a broken bone—it’s a serious injury that can affect balance, mobility, and long-term joint health if not treated properly. The ankle joint is formed by three bones—the tibia, fibula, and talus—and any of these can break under stress or trauma.
Fractures are most often caused by sports injuries, falls, twisting motions, or vehicle accidents, and they range from small hairline cracks to complex multi-bone breaks requiring surgery.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we help patients across Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas recover full function through advanced orthopedic diagnostics and treatment. Dr. Robert L. Burke, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, combines precision imaging, evidence-based medicine, and individualized rehabilitation to ensure every fracture heals correctly and completely.
What Causes an Ankle Fracture
Ankle fractures occur when the joint is subjected to forces stronger than the bone can withstand. Common causes include:
- Falls or twists while walking or running
- Sports impacts (basketball, soccer, football, running)
- Motor-vehicle or workplace accidents
- High-energy trauma such as jumping or falling from height
- Stress fractures from repetitive load or overtraining
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Fractures may involve:
- Lateral malleolus (outer fibula bone)
- Medial malleolus (inner tibia bone)
- Posterior malleolus (back of the tibia)
- Bimalleolar or trimalleolar fractures affecting multiple bones and the ankle’s structural alignment
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Symptoms of an Ankle Fracture
Symptoms vary depending on severity but typically include:
- Sudden, severe ankle pain after injury
- Swelling, bruising, or visible deformity
- Inability to bear weight or walk
- Numbness or tingling in the foot (if swelling compresses nerves)
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A popping sound or immediate instability often accompanies severe fractures. Because fractures can sometimes mimic sprains, proper orthopedic evaluation is essential to avoid complications.
Diagnosis
Dr. Burke performs a thorough evaluation beginning with a review of the injury event and a physical examination for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion.
Advanced imaging helps confirm the extent of the damage:
- X-rays to identify the break’s location and alignment
- CT scans for complex or multi-fragment fractures
- MRI scans to assess ligament and soft-tissue involvement
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Early and accurate diagnosis ensures that treatment is matched precisely to the injury, minimizing recovery time and preventing long-term deformity or arthritis.
Treatment Options at Dr. Burke Orthopedics
Non-Surgical Treatments
Many simple or stable fractures can heal with conservative management. Dr. Burke designs treatment plans that allow bone healing while maintaining proper joint alignment.
Typical non-surgical approaches include:
- Immobilization using a cast, boot, or brace to keep bones stable
- Elevation and ice to control swelling
- Pain and anti-inflammatory medications as needed
- Weight-bearing restrictions with crutches or a walker
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- After immobilization to restore strength, motion, and balance
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Most non-surgical fractures heal within 6–8 weeks, depending on age, bone health, and adherence to care instructions.
Surgical Treatments
When a fracture is unstable, displaced, or involves multiple bones, surgical repair may be necessary.Dr. Burke uses advanced orthopedic techniques to restore proper alignment and joint stability.
Common procedures include:
- Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) – repositioning bone fragments and securing them with plates, screws, or rods
- External Fixation for complex or open fractures
- Arthroscopy to address associated cartilage damage
- Reconstructive Surgery for severe or chronic deformities
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Surgery is typically followed by a period of immobilization, followed by guided physical therapy to rebuild mobility and strength.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Healing time varies based on fracture type and treatment method:
- Simple fractures: 6–8 weeks for bone union
- Complex or surgical fractures: 10–12 weeks or longer
- Full rehabilitation: 3–6 months for complete recovery of function and strength
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Rehabilitation at Dr. Burke Orthopedics includes:
- Gradual weight-bearing progression under supervision
- Balance and proprioception training to prevent future injuries
- Strengthening of surrounding muscles to support joint stability
- Monitoring for post-traumatic arthritis or stiffness
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Long-term success depends on adherence to therapy and proper protection of the healing joint.
Prevention and Long-Term Joint Health
To prevent future ankle fractures:
- Wear supportive, activity-specific footwear
- Maintain good bone density through calcium and vitamin D intake
- Avoid uneven terrain when fatigued
- Strengthen calf and ankle muscles regularly
- Use braces or supports after prior fractures when returning to sports
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When to Seek Medical Care
You should contact an orthopedic specialist immediately if you experience:
- Severe pain, swelling, or bruising after an ankle injury
- Deformity or visible bone displacement
- Inability to move or bear weight on the foot
- Numbness, tingling, or coldness in the toes (possible circulation issue)
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Delaying care can lead to improper bone healing, chronic instability, or early arthritis.
Serving Our Community
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we are committed to helping patients rebuild strength and mobility after injury. Serving Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas, our orthopedic team combines advanced technology with personalized care for the best outcomes possible. lifestyle.
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Serving Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas, our goal is to help you move confidently and live pain-free.
Call (713) 436-3488 or Request an Appointment Online to schedule a consultation with Dr. Robert L. Burke, board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in foot and heel pain treatment.
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Regain Strength and Stability with Expert Fracture Care
If you’ve suffered an ankle fracture, timely and precise treatment can make all the difference in your recovery.
Call (713) 436-3488 or Request an Appointment Online to schedule your consultation with Dr. Robert L. Burke, board-certified orthopedic surgeon trusted across Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas.
Our team delivers comprehensive fracture management—from diagnosis to rehabilitation—so you can heal correctly and return to the activities you love.