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Treatment Options for an Ankle Break / Fracture You’ll probably need to wear a cast, splint, or walking boot for around 6-10 weeks which keeps your bones in place while they heal.
Can a fractured ankle heal without a cast?
Technically speaking, the answer to the question “can broken bones heal without a cast?” is yes. Assuming conditions are just right, a broken bone can heal without a cast. However, (and very importantly) it doesn’t work in all cases. Likewise, a broken bone left to heal without a cast may heal improperly.
Can you walk on a fractured ankle?
Broken ankle — can you still walk? Typically, a minor ankle fracture won’t prevent you from walking. You might even be able to walk right after the injury. If you have a serious break, you’ll need to avoid walking for a few months.
How can you tell if a fracture is healing?
Within a few months after the fracture, you will have completely new bone tissue to repair the break. It will then be almost impossible to break the bone in the exact same spot thereafter because the bone will be thicker and stronger in that spot than in the surrounding bone.
How do I know if my foot is sprained or fractured?
Is it a sprain?
- Pain that is in the soft, “squishy” tissue over a bone rather than directly on the bone itself.
- You can usually put weight on it, even if it’s painful.
- Swelling and bruising around the area.
- Limited movement or mobility of the affected area.
- A “popping” (not “cracking”) sound at the time of the injury.
Can you walk on a fractured foot?
Most foot fractures take 6 to 8 weeks to heal. Healing time varies, so ask your doctor when you can resume normal activities. Most people make a full recovery and can walk again after breaking a foot. However, complications are possible.
Does a hairline fracture need a cast?
Treatment for a hairline fracture looks different than that of a more severe fracture. You likely won’t need a cast, but the doctor may recommend that you wear a brace to keep your arm immobile. You should also rest your arm and use ice to control the pain.
Can you move your toes if your ankle is broken?
Most believe that if they can wiggle their toes or move the ankle around that an ankle fracture has not occurred. The reason this is not true is because the nerves and muscles that allow the movement of the ankle have not been affected by the fracture.
How long will my ankle be swollen after fracture?
The foot and ankle become swollen, painful and can no longer hold any weight. It takes several days or weeks for the swelling to go down completely, and can take months for the ankle joint to fully recover from the fracture.
Can you walk on a hairline fracture?
Medical treatments. Your doctor may recommend that you use crutches to keep weight off an injured foot or leg. You can also wear protective footwear or a cast. Because it usually takes up to six to eight weeks to completely heal from a hairline fracture, it’s important to modify your activities during that time.
Can a fracture heal without a cast?
Some fractures stay still enough to heal without a cast or surgical plate. Ribs run parallel to each other, so a fractured rib is supported by the ribs on each side. We also don’t put a bunch of pressure on our ribs, so they heal easily.
How long does a fracture take to heal in the ankle?
Your provider may do x-rays periodically after your injury to see how your ankle is healing. Your provider will let you know when you can return to regular activities and sports. Most people need at least 6 to 10 weeks to fully heal.
How can I tell if my ankle is broken or fractured?
With a sprain, you feel pain. But if you have numbness or tingling, your ankle is most likely broken. Where is the pain? If your ankle hurts or is tender to the touch directly over your ankle bone, you probably have a fracture.
Can a fracture heal in 2 weeks?
Recovery: Weeks 1-2 An average recovery takes 6-8 weeks but can vary based on the bone, type of break, your age, and your overall health. During the first couple of weeks, you’ll need patience and good old-fashioned self-care. This is where you set the stage for healing.
Can you wiggle your toes with a broken foot?
Compound fractures are severe and require immediate medical attention. Loss of Mobility – If you can’t say where any of them are broken, wiggle your fingers or toes. If doing so happens to be difficult or painful, you may have a break above that point. Intense Pain – Breaks are painful, especially under pressure.
What does a fractured foot feel like?
Signs and symptoms of a broken foot may include pain, limping, swelling, bruising, and refusal to bear weight on the affected foot. Initial treatment may include RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation). Rest may include the use of crutches to limit weight bearing.
What happens if a hairline fracture is untreated?
Ignoring a hairline fracture can lead to a more serious fracture or break occurring, which is more difficult to treat. If not treated or ignored, the hairline may not heal, resulting in a non-union fracture.
What does a fractured ankle feel like?
Ankle Fracture Symptoms Pain is the most common complaint. Often the pain will not come from the exact area of the fracture. You may experience associated fractures of your foot (especially on the side of the small toe) or knee that also cause pain. It is usually pain in the ankle that stops you from walking.
How do you treat a fractured ankle?
Foot and Ankle Fracture Treatment Options
- Rest: Rest is key.
- Ice: Ice the area for 20 minutes at a time to help with swelling and inflammation.
- Compression: Wrapping the injury helps control swelling.
- Elevation: Keep your foot and ankle raised slightly above the level of your heart to help reduce inflammation.
