First aid for ankle fracture
- Rest – keep weight off the ankle
- Apply Ice or ice-pack – duration 15 – 20 mins with periodic gaps of 40 – 45 mins
- Moderate compression
- Elevate leg to the level of the heart
An immediate visit to the doctor for assessment of the injury sustained is mandatory.
Ankle fracture could be treated either surgically or non-surgically.
Non-surgical treatment is resorted to when medical assessment suggests ankle stability
and no dislocation. In such cases the fractured ankle is immobilized by a brace.
However if the fractured ankle is found to be unstable, then it is treated surgically.
It usually takes 6 weeks for the bone to heal. During this period it is advised
to keep weight off the ankle so that the bones heal in proper alignment.
To restore mobility of the ankle joint intensive physiotherapy exercises are advised
after the removal of plaster cast.
Medical tip
Orthopaedic supports or braces advised against broken ankle are
Medical supports and braces are prescribed by the doctor if required, and the patients
are measured for the correct fit by specialist medical retailers (e.g. surgical
appliance dealers): the user’s relevant measurements are taken so that an exact
anatomical fit is achieved.
