Fractures of the ankle and foot are some of the most common musculoskeletal injuries and often cause symptoms such as severe pain and reduced mobility. The ankle and foot are made up of a complex network of bones and ligaments that are designed to support body weight, maintain balance and facilitate movement. These properties make them important for movement and stability, which is why the treatment of fractures in these areas is challenging. Osteosynthesis is a surgical technique used to stabilize and repair fractures of the ankle and foot with the use of various materials.
The most common fractures in the ankle are fractures of the tibia, fibula or both while the most common fractures in the foot are fractures in the metatarsal, phalanges and the smaller bones of the foot.
What causes ankle and foot fractures?
Fractures of the ankle and foot are usually the result of injury, but the underlying mechanisms of injury may vary and include:
- A fall from a height or a misstep that causes awkward turning of the foot, particularly in older adults.
- An injury during sporting activities such as basketball, football and skiing, particularly due to sudden changes in direction or collisions.
- Car accidents.
- Repetitive bone stress, which is more common in athletes.
- Osteoporosis, in which even small falls or twisting movements can cause a fracture in the area.
What are the symptoms of ankle and foot fractures?
The symptoms that accompany ankle and foot fractures depend on the location and severity of the fracture. In general though, the most common symptoms are:
- severe, sharp pain, which worsens with movement or weight bearing.
- swelling and bruising, which often spreads down the leg or foot.
- visible deformity, such as abnormal alignment of the bones or dislocation of the ankle, in more severe fractures
- inability to walk or bear weight on the affected side.
- tenderness and pain on palpation.
In order to determine the most appropriate treatment for ankle and foot fractures it is necessary to diagnose them accurately and clearly. The process of diagnosis includes a physical examination in which the doctor will evaluate the site of the injury for deformity, swelling, pain range of motion and joint stability. X-rays are necessary to visualize fractures, determine their type and evaluate displacement. In complex fractures or those involving joint surfaces, MRI or CT scans may be needed to fully assess the extent of the damage.
How are ankle and foot fractures treated?
Treatment of ankle and foot fractures depends on the severity of the fracture and whether the bones have shifted out of position (displaced fractures) or remain in their normal position (non-displaced fractures). Minor fractures can be treated conservatively, but more severe injuries often require surgery.
Conservative treatment options may include
- Immobilization using a cast, splint or walking boot to keep the bones in proper alignment while healing takes place. Usually recommended for simple fractures of the metatarsals or phalanges.
- Medication to manage pain and discomfort.
- Rest and elevation of the affected leg to reduce swelling and prevent further injury.
Surgical treatment with the osteosynthesis procedure is the appropriate option for unstable and displaced fractures of the ankle and foot. This surgical procedure involves realignment and stabilization of the bone using metallic material such as plates, screws, or pins.
In internal osteosynthesis/fixation, the surgeon aligns the bone fragments and uses materials (usually screws and/or plates) to hold them in place. For ankle fractures, screws may be placed to stabilize the tibia and fibula, while plates with screws may be used to provide additional support to the bone.
In cases with severe soft tissue damage or when internal fixation is not possible, external osteosynthesis/fixation is performed, in which pins or needles are inserted into the bone and attached to an external frame.
What are the advantages of osteosynthesis?
- Accurate alignment of the bones
- Early mobilization of the affected area
- Less risk of complications, which means better long-term results and a reduction in the potential need for repeat corrective surgery.
How are ankle and foot fractures prevented?
- Exercises to strengthen the muscles around the ankle and foot to improve the stability of the joint and reduce the risk of fractures in case of a fall or during sports activities
- In sports, the use of appropriate footwear and protective equipment can reduce the risk of injury.
- For older people, home modifications, balance exercises and the use of assistive devices are important to prevent falls.
- Also, maintaining bone health through a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, combined with regular weight-bearing exercise, can reduce the risk of fractures, especially in people with osteoporosis.
Osteosynthesis restores proper bone alignment and allows for early mobilization, accelerating healing and reducing the risk of long-term complications.
To learn more about treatment options for ankle and foot fractures, contact us at 6943903343 (secretariat) or 6949196061 (doctor) and at orthopedikos-papagiannopoulos.gr and make an appointment.
