Foot and Ankle Fracture Treatment

What You Need to Know About Fractures

Learn how foot and ankle fractures happen, how they are diagnosed, and how they are treated.

Understanding Foot and Ankle Fractures

A fracture is a break in the bone, as opposed to a soft tissue injury such as a sprain or strain. A stress fracture is a tiny bone break caused by overuse, and often develops over time rather than suddenly.

Injuries are the most common causes of foot and ankle fractures, especially during sports like basketball and football. Trip and fall accidents may cause a fracture, as can a vehicle or bicycle accident. A fractured foot or ankle will cause pain, bruising, and swelling. It will also be difficult to walk on the injured foot or ankle.

Your podiatrist will assess your injury with imaging tests such as an X-ray. An ultrasound or MRI can help diagnose stress fractures as well as soft tissue injuries.

Treatment depends on your injury. A serious break may require metal plates and screws to line up the bone properly. Stress fractures need rest and immobilization with a special boot or a cast and crutches.

For a serious break, or if your pain and swelling persist after a day or two and you still have difficulty walking, get to your foot doctor or emergency room right away for evaluation and care.

At-Home Care Before You See a Doctor

If you suspect that you have broken a bone in your foot or ankle, use the RICE protocol at home before you can get to medical treatment. This simple approach helps control pain and swelling in the hours after an injury and can make a difference in how comfortable you are before you reach a provider.

Rest the foot and leg. Avoid putting weight on the injured area, since walking on a possible fracture can make the injury worse.

Ice the area as quickly as possible, and reapply every 3 or 4 hours for 15 to 20 minutes each time. Cold helps reduce swelling and dulls pain in the first hours and days after an injury.

Use an elastic bandage to apply compression and minimize swelling. Elevate the leg on pillows, preferably higher than your heart, to help fluid drain away from the injured area. Ibuprofen can help relieve pain and swelling if you are able to take it safely.

RICE is a starting point, not a substitute for medical care. If pain, bruising, or swelling continues, or if you cannot walk on the foot, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist so the injury can be properly imaged and treated.