Broken ankles can mean one or more of the three bones that make up the ankle joint are broken. The severity of the break will determine the treatment prescribed. Badly broken ankles require the insertion of wires or metal screws, while moderate ankle breaks may need manipulation by the doctor to set the bones.
Reduction
In this procedure, the doctor manipulates the ankle to force the bones back to their original position. The procedure may require a general anesthetic or pain medication, and the patient may need to wear a cast to keep the bones aligned. According to Science Daily; After Ankle Surgery: Mobilize With Care; Wiley-Blackwell; July 2008, people can recover faster when given a splint or a cast. Casts are typically made from fiberglass or plaster. Fiberglass casts are generally used when the ankle's alignment is stable or there has been some healing. The patient will receive crutches to keep weight off the ankle, and pain medication or muscle relaxers may be prescribed.
Surgery
X-rays will determine if surgery is necessary. The majority of ankle breaks require surgical procedures, according to Sisters of Mercy Medical Center. Pins, wires or screws are inserted into the medial malleolus and the fibula to keep the ankle in one stable position. These alignment tools are removed when the ankle is healed.
Rehabilitation
According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, rehabilitation is a vital part of ankle fracture treatment. When the cast comes off, your doctor may prescribe some home exercises. Sometimes, visiting a physical therapist is important for following the right kind of exercise regimen. It may take several months to walk without a limp, but following your exercise regimen will speed your recovery time.
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