Fractures Specialist

What are fractures?

A fracture is a broken bone. Fractures can range from small partial cracks through the bone to complete breaks. Many fractures break the bone in two, but severe fractures can separate it into three or more sections. 

At Brandywine Foot and Ankle Associates, the premier team of board-certified podiatrists specializes in fractures of the feet and ankles. Fractures in these areas are very common, and they can also be quite debilitating if untreated. 

Sports injuries, falls, direct blows, and osteoporosis are among the most common causes of fractures in the feet and ankles. 

What are the symptoms of a fracture?

Fractures usually cause symptoms quickly after an accident. You may experience:

• Tenderness or pain
• Swelling
• Skin bruising
• Stiffness
• Change in the foot or ankle appearance
• Decreased movement
• Difficulty standing
• Difficulty walking

Sprains and fractures can have very similar symptoms. It's important to seek a diagnosis so you can start the appropriate treatment right away. Fractures that don’t heal correctly can cause chronic pain and increase your risk of arthritis in the affected area.

How are fractures treated?

The team determines the extent of the damage and the exact location of your fracture using X-ray imaging. You may also need a CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound to determine whether you have any ligament, tendon, or muscle damage. 

Your fracture treatment depends on a few factors, including its location, severity, and whether it’s nondisplaced (still properly aligned) or displaced (misaligned), among others. The most common treatments include:

Immobilization

Immobilization, which means setting the bone in the proper position and stabilizing it to prevent movement, can be a good option for less severe fractures. You may need a brace, boot, or cast for immobilization. 

Surgery

If you have a severe bone fracture, you may need surgery to reposition and stabilize your bones so they can heal. The skilled surgeons at Brandywine Foot and Ankle Associates regularly perform foot and ankle reconstruction using pins, plates, and screws inside your ankle (internal fixation) or outside your ankle (external fixation). 

Whether you need surgical or nonsurgical fracture care, physical therapy helps you return to your normal activities. 

Brandywine Foot and Ankle Associates offers fracture care when you're hurt, and they support you long-term with fracture prevention techniques as well. 

If you suspect a fracture, get off your foot and call Brandywine Foot and Ankle Associates or book an appointment online right away.