Fractures Specialist

Where do foot and ankle fractures occur?

Foot fractures can happen in any one of the 26 bones in the foot. The most common are breaks of the toes, especially the big toe; the middle bones of the foot (metatarsals); the bones at the back of the foot (the cuneiform, cuboid, talus, heel bone, and navicular); and the small round bones at the base of the big toe (sesamoids).

In some cases, these breaks aren’t clean and direct. Rather, they’re diagnosed as stress fractures. You experience a small crack or severe bruising within a bone due to repetitive activity and overuse. Stress fractures put you at risk of a complete fracture, which is far more serious and takes much longer to heal.

Ankle fractures happen either in the ankle joint, where the tibia, fibula, and talus bones meet, or in the syndesmosis joint, the joint between the fibula and tibia.

What causes foot fractures?

Foot fractures can happen because of injuries like falls or direct impacts of the foot against something hard like a wall. If you twist in an awkward way, a foot fracture is also possible. Stress fractures are usually caused by overuse and are common in athletes like runners and dancers.

You can damage your ankle by twisting or rotating it in an awkward way. Rolling your ankle, tripping or falling, and an impact during a car accident can all injure an ankle.

How is a foot or ankle fracture diagnosed?

After a comprehensive review of your symptoms and a physical exam, the doctors at Albuquerque Associated Podiatrists will order imaging exams like X-rays. In rare cases, they will recommend an MRI or CT scan for diagnosis.

How are fractures treated?

The treatment depends on which bone is damaged. Usually, rest and immobilization help you heal. The doctors can give you a splint or boot specially designed to protect your foot. A boot features a rigid sole and open toes, which allows your foot to breathe, but protects you from further injury and discourages movements that could delay healing.

Some foot fractures benefit from casting. As you recover and the bones heal, the team can recommend physical therapy to restore function. Exactly how long your fracture takes to heal depends on the injury and how your body responds to treatment.

If you think you’ve fractured your foot or ankle, call Albuquerque Associated Podiatrists or book an appointment using the online tool.