Broken Ankle

Diagnosis of a Broken Ankle

Your healthcare professional will examine your ankle, foot, and lower leg to check for tenderness and range of motion. Observing your walking pattern may also help identify the injury.

Tests for a Broken Ankle

• X-rays:

  • Most ankle fractures are visible on X-rays.

  • Stress fractures may not appear until healing begins.

• Bone scan:

  • Detects breaks that X-rays might miss.

  • Involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material into a vein, which highlights damaged bone.

• CT scan:

  • Uses X-ray techniques to create detailed 3D images of bones and surrounding soft tissues.

  • Provides more detail than standard X-rays.

• MRI scan:

  • Uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field to produce detailed images of soft tissues.

  • Can reveal fractures not seen on X-rays.

Treatment of a Broken Ankle

Treatment depends on which bone is broken and the severity of the injury.

• Medicines:

  • Pain relief with over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol).

• Therapy:

  • After the bone heals, physical therapy helps restore motion, strength, and balance.

• Surgical or other procedures:

  • Reduction: Aligns the broken bone if it is displaced. May involve muscle relaxants, sedation, or local anesthesia.

  • Immobilization: A cast or special boot keeps the ankle stable while the bone heals, usually 2–3 months.

  • Surgery: Orthopedic surgeons may insert pins, plates, or screws to hold bones in place. Hardware may be removed later if needed.