A broken ankle can affect one or more bones in a child’s ankle. It can happen after a fall, a sports collision, or an awkward landing. Symptoms include sudden pain, swelling, and bruising. A child may struggle to stand or put weight on the foot. Because children’s bones are still developing, a fracture can involve a growth plate. This softer area near a bone’s end helps it grow. Growth-plate injuries need prompt attention because they can affect how the bone develops.
It is not always easy to tell a broken ankle from a sprain. Both injuries can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. A podiatrist will ask how the injury happened and examine the ankle for tenderness or changes in shape. X-rays can show the location of a break and whether the bones have shifted. Other imaging tests can provide more detail when a fracture is difficult to see. Treatment depends on the child’s age, the type of break, and the position of the bones. A cast or walking boot can keep the ankle still while it heals. The podiatrist may also limit weight-bearing and monitor the bone with follow-up X-rays.
Some fractures must be gently moved back into alignment before the ankle is placed in a cast. Surgery may be needed when bones are badly displaced, the ankle is unstable, or the skin has been damaged. The podiatrist can explain the safest treatment and check healing at follow-up visits. These visits are especially important when a growth plate is involved. After the bone heals, the podiatrist can guide a gradual return to walking, school activities, and sports. Returning too soon can raise the risk of another injury. Protective bracing may be recommended when the child becomes active again. If your child has broken their ankle, it is suggested that you make an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Premier Ankle & Foot Specialists. Our doctors 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 our offices located in South York, West York, and East York, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
