Pain always immediately occurs with a broken ankle. Despite the intense pain, a broken ankle is rarely life-threatening. It can happen from falling, or from suddenly twisting the ankle. Additional symptoms can include bruising, swelling, and in severe cases, the bone may protrude.  Prior to receiving the right treatment, an X-ray is generally taken which can determine the severity of the fracture. Mildly broken ankles are treated by wearing a walking boot or a cast, and it can help to frequently elevate the foot. A full recovery may take up to several weeks, and stretches and exercises can be performed when the cast or boot is no longer needed. The affected foot often needs to be strengthened, and a podiatrist can offer to follow up treatment strategies. If you have broken your ankle, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of this type of doctor who can treat broken ankles, and monitor your recovery progress.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Arnold Tarpley, Jr. from Tarpley Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Tarpley 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 Uniontown, and Connellsville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.