Ankle Fractures

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.

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What Causes an Ankle Fracture

Ankle fractures occur when the joint is subjected to forces stronger than the bone can withstand. Common causes include:

Sudden twisting or rolling of the ankle, often during sports or physical activity
Uneven surfaces that cause the foot to turn inward or outward unexpectedly
Improper footwear that fails to support the ankle
Previous ankle injuries that weakened ligament strength
Jumping, running, or landing incorrectly

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:

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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:

Sharp pain or tenderness around the ankle joint
Swelling and bruising within hours of injury
Difficulty bearing weight or walking
Stiffness or restricted range of motion
Weakness or instability in the ankle after activity

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.

Sudden twisting or rolling of the ankle, often during sports or physical activity
Uneven surfaces that cause the foot to turn inward or outward unexpectedly
Improper footwear that fails to support the ankle
Previous ankle injuries that weakened ligament strength
Jumping, running, or landing incorrectly

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 rule out bone fractures
MRI scans to evaluate soft tissue and ligament damage
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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.

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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:

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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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Physical Therapy

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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.

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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:

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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.

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Recovery and Rehabilitation

Healing time varies based on fracture type and treatment method:

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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:

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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.

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Prevention and Long-Term Joint Health

To prevent future ankle fractures:

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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:

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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.

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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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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.

Medical Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition. If you experience severe pain, swelling, or loss of movement, please contact a healthcare provider immediately or visit your nearest emergency center.