What Is an Ankle Fracture?

An ankle fracture is a break in one or more of the bones that make up the ankle joint, typically the tibia, fibula, or talus. These injuries can occur from falls, sports injuries, twisting accidents, or direct trauma. Depending on the severity, fractures may range from small cracks to complex breaks that affect ankle stability and may require surgical intervention.

Common symptoms include significant pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty bearing weight, and inability to walk comfortably.

Ankle Fracture Treatment Options

As soon as an injury occurs, patients are advised to limit movement and avoid putting weight on the affected ankle. If symptoms persist or a fracture is suspected, immediate evaluation is recommended.

Treatment may include fracture boots, casting, crutches, pain management with NSAIDs, physical therapy, and in more severe cases, surgical repair to properly align and stabilize the bone for healing.

Proper diagnosis is essential to determine the type and severity of the fracture. X-rays are typically the first imaging tool used, while CT scans or MRI may be recommended for more complex injuries. Early and accurate imaging ensures the correct treatment plan is selected and helps prevent long-term complications.

In cases where the bone is displaced but surgery is not immediately required, a procedure called closed reduction may be performed. The doctor carefully realigns the fractured bone without making an incision, then stabilizes it using a cast or walking boot to maintain proper positioning during healing.

TREATMENT OPTIONS
Fracture Boot or Casting

Immobilization is used to stabilize the broken bone and keep it properly aligned while it heals. This may include a walking boot or a cast depending on the type and severity of the fracture.

Crutches / Reduced Weight-Bearing

Patients are advised to avoid putting pressure on the injured ankle. Crutches or assistive devices help protect the fracture and prevent further damage during the healing phase.

Medication & Pain Management

NSAIDs such as ibuprofen may be recommended to help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation while the injury begins to heal.

Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation

Once the bone begins to heal, physical therapy helps restore strength, flexibility, balance, and normal walking ability to the ankle.

Our Downtown and Midtown NYC Foot Doctors Can Get You Back On Your Feet

If you have an ankle fracture or any other foot and ankle condition, our award-winning New York foot doctors are here to provide expert care and guide you through a safe recovery.

Serving Midtown and Downtown Manhattan, we are committed to helping you return to healthy, active living as quickly as possible. Call us at 917-398-3668 or book an appointment online.

Our Midtown and Downtown NYC Foot Doctors Can Get You Back On Your Feet

If you have an ankle fracture or any other foot and ankle condition, our award-winning New York foot doctors are here to provide expert care and guide you through a safe recovery.

Serving Midtown and Downtown Manhattan, we are committed to helping you return to healthy, active living as quickly as possible. Call us at 917-398-3668 or book an appointment online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sometimes scar tissue builds up in a tendon and causes the tendon to lose its elasticity. At that point, chronic Achilles tendinitis can be treated by removing the scar tissue using a minimally invasive procedure like Tenex. This uses a wand that transmits ultrasonic energy to break through the scar tissue leaving healthy tissue behind. Downtime is minimal and return to normal activity is about a week.

Warm-up before and cool down after your workout routine. Slowly increase the intensity of your exercise over a period of time. If you’re using equipment at the gym, make sure you know how to use it safely and also with the form and posture. If unsure, always ask!
Β 

Grab a resistance band (or even a stretchy t-shirt)! Place the band or shirt around the ball of your foot. Pull the two ends of the band or shirt towards you until you feel a nice stretch in the back of your leg. Hold this stretch for 30 seconds, and relax for 10 seconds. Repeat this 5-10 times for both legs!

Achilles tendonitis rarely requires surgery. However, if treatment is delayed or neglected, there could be further damage such as a tendon tear. This would require surgical repair, and although we can do this with minimally invasive techniques, it is better to prevent damage when possible. Don’t ignore your pain. See your podiatrist as soon as possible.

RELATED SERVICES

By accurately diagnosing, treating, and preventing lower leg, foot, and ankle conditions and ailments, we get you on your way back to healthy feet!Β  We use conservative care and only activate surgeries when absolutely necessary.Β  Here are some of the foot and ankle conditions we treat. Get that peace of mind, and reach out and book an appointment with us today!

ANKLE SPRAIN

BUNION/HALLUX VALGUS

MORTON'S NEUROMA

PLANTAR FASCIITIS

TESTIMONIAL

Testimonials

Kayla

Dr.Artis was so amazing. After going to two other podiatrists who gave me no support or hope, Dr. artis made me feel like there can be change for me. She was so patient, kind and informative. I’m actually excited to go back and get my results.

Christina

Everyone was super friendly. Doctor Rick’s explained everything thoroughly.

Benjamin

Dr Bell was incredibly thorough and personable. Gave me great information and useful information for my next steps. A great experience!

Alicia

“Fast, professional, and very clean office. I was checked in and seen within 10 minutes of my scheduled time. Dr. Ricks was straight to the point but thorough. The front desk staff was also incredibly helpful.

Travis

All of the staff are super welcoming and professional! Bianca took excellent care in getting my X-rays. Dr. Ricks was thorough in explaining my diagnosis and next steps. Highly recommended!!

Fresh

Well before I came in today to see Dr. Ricks my foot in pain was 9/10 and now I feel good πŸ™πŸΏπŸ€© thanks

Stop living with foot pain. We can help.

Our award-winning podiatrists at 4 Manhattan locations treat every condition β€” from heel pain to minimally invasive surgery β€” with care plans built around your lifestyle and budget.

Same-day & next-day appointments

Available at all 4 NYC locations

Minimally invasive treatments

Walk in, walk out β€” no general anesthesia

Most insurances accepted

We handle the billing so you don't have to

Award-winning female podiatrists

As seen in Forbes & InStyle Magazine

Contact Form

    Book Your Visit