General
A fracture of the ankle joint usually affects the upper part of the joint, also called the upper ankle joint. The upper ankle joint is the connection between the bones of the lower leg and the foot. Fractures affecting the ankle joint are a very common injury.
The ankle is the third most common location for fractures in humans. Fractures at this location occur particularly frequently when the foot is bent over and represent a classic sports injury. The fractures do not always occur at the same location and can be divided into different categories depending on the findings.
In medicine, a classification according to Weber A, B or C fracture is common. This classification is based on the height of the fracture as well as the impairment of the so-called syndesmosis, the connection between the two bones of the lower leg. The treatment of an ankle fracture is usually surgical and focuses on stabilizing the bone and positioning the bone fragments in their original position.
Screws and plates are often used for this purpose, which can be removed after the bones have healed. The prognosis for an ankle fracture depends on the extent of the injuries, but is usually very good. Especially if the recommendations of the medical staff are followed, a complete loading of the ankle joint is possible again after some time.
Ankle fractures occur particularly frequently when the foot is bent over. If the person concerned bends over and then notices symptoms that could indicate the presence of an ankle fracture, a doctor should always be consulted. Typically, ankle fractures, like other fractures of the body, cause severe pain immediately after the trauma.
Especially when trying to put pressure on the foot or when applying pressure to the affected area, strong pain usually occurs. A few minutes after the trauma, further symptoms usually show up indicating a fracture of the ankle joint. For example, the formation of a bruise on the foot is typical of the injury.
The development of a swelling on the foot is another, rather unspecific symptom of an ankle fracture. General symptoms such as nausea and vomiting can also occur with such a fracture. If it is an open fracture, one or more bone fragments pierce the skin and are visible. Only in this case can an ankle fracture be detected by means of a gaze diagnosis without the need for further diagnostic measures.
