Ankle further diagnoses

When the foot is twisted, the soft  tissues can tear or the bones can break or both. Since the ankle joint is so tightly fitted together, even a displacement of the bones by as little as 1 mm can cause a significant increase in the abnormal forces across the joint, eventually  leading to arthritis. When the bones break, swelling and instability occur.  Ice, elevation and support are the initial steps.  The definitive treatment is based on the fracture pattern and the degree of displacement.  Early accurate reduction of the fracture and support with a splint or surgical plates and screws are extremely important.  X-rays, MRI and CT scans are used to define the fracture patterns.  Accuracy in diagnosis and treatment are the key to a successful outcome.

Ankle dislocation

When an ankle dislocates, most of the ligaments supporting the ankle are torn and usually a fracture occurs.  The blood supply to the structures of the ankle are at extreme risk in an ankle dislocation, which is why it is considered an emergency requiring immediate care and reduction of the dislocation.  Almost all ankle dislocations require immediate surgical repair to obtain the best outcome.

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Explore all your options. Learn about procedures that can help you return to sports & delay or avoid ankle fusion/replacement.