Ankle injuries are fairly common amongst all age groups across Sydney and Australia. This makes sense, since ankles are one of the most important joints in the human body, and they are indispensable to mobility and walking. Your ankles have a wide range of movement; however, forceful trauma can cause sprained or fractured ankles.
Cause of a Fractured Ankle
A fractured ankle usually develops after your ankle is forced to twist inwards or outwards forcefully and the joint stretches beyond its normal range of motion. You can also fracture your ankle after suffering from a traumatic event, such as a fall or car accident. Even jumping and landing the wrong way can cause a fractured ankle. Our podiatrists in Sydney regularly assess patients who have sustained ankle fractures and work alongside medical teams to ensure optimal recovery.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
The symptoms of a fractured ankle are very similar to those of an ankle sprain: pain, swelling, and tenderness will appear shortly after the injury. You might hear a popping sound when the fracture occurs, and the joint might appear deformed. In severe cases, the bone might even protrude through the skin; this is called an open fracture.
There are several different ways to classify a fractured ankle, such as the Lauge-Hansen classification, which categorises ankle fractures by the mechanism that caused the injury. Another classification, called Danis-Weber, is based on the location of the fracture. There are other classification systems that are specific to certain types of ankle fractures, such as medial malleolus fractures, or Pilon fractures. Using these categorisation systems will help your medical team determine the severity of your injury and the treatment you need. In order to make this assessment, your doctor will order some X-rays of your fractured ankle.
In many cases, X-rays are also necessary to differentiate a fractured ankle from an ankle sprain or dislocation. Since the mechanism of the injury and the symptoms can be very similar for all of these conditions, X-rays and other imaging tests — such as an MRI — will be the key to making the right diagnosis.
Fractured Ankle Treatment in Sydney
The treatment for your fractured ankle begins with rest. Depending on the severity of your injury, your doctor will tell you how long this period must be. During this period, you might need to wear a cast or walking boot in order to make sure the joint stays immobile. After your joint has had time to rest and heal, your podiatrist and physiotherapist will get you started on several rehabilitation exercises. As your strength and range of motion improve, the exercises will become more complex until you regain full mobility.
It is vital to seek professional assessment for a suspected sprained ankle or fracture. Leaving either condition untreated can increase the likelihood of suffering future injuries and/or developing chronic instability or pain in your ankle. Our podiatry team at ModPod Podiatry has clinics across Sydney, including Dee Why, Mosman, Rose Bay, North Ryde, and the CBD (Hunter Street).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my ankle is fractured or just sprained?
It can be very difficult to distinguish between a fracture and a severe sprain without imaging. Both cause pain, swelling, and bruising. Bony tenderness directly over a bone and inability to bear weight are more suggestive of a fracture. If in doubt, seek urgent assessment. Our Sydney podiatrists can advise you on whether X-ray is needed.
How long does a fractured ankle take to heal?
Recovery time depends on the type and severity of the fracture. Simple, non-displaced fractures may heal in six to eight weeks, while more complex fractures requiring surgery may take four to six months or longer. Your Sydney podiatrist and treating doctor will provide a more specific timeline for your case.
Can I walk on a fractured ankle?
In most cases, walking on a fractured ankle is not recommended as it can displace the fracture and worsen your injury. If you suspect a fracture, try to avoid putting weight on the ankle until it has been assessed by a medical professional or podiatrist in Sydney.
Does a fractured ankle always need surgery?
No. Many ankle fractures can be treated conservatively with a cast or walking boot, particularly if the fracture is stable and the bones are well-aligned. Surgery is typically reserved for displaced or unstable fractures. Your treating team in Sydney will determine the most appropriate management for your injury.
What happens after a fractured ankle cast comes off?
After your cast is removed, your ankle will likely be stiff, weak, and swollen. A structured rehabilitation programme with a podiatrist or physiotherapist is essential to restore range of motion, strength, and balance. Our Sydney podiatrists at ModPod Podiatry can guide your full recovery.
Can custom orthotics help after a fractured ankle?
Yes. Custom foot orthotics can be very helpful during recovery from a fractured ankle, particularly if there are underlying biomechanical issues. They provide support and help redistribute forces to protect healing tissue. Our Sydney podiatry team can assess whether orthotics are appropriate for your recovery.
Does ModPod Podiatry treat fractured ankles across Sydney?
Yes. Our experienced podiatrists see patients with fractured ankles — and those recovering from them — at our clinics in Dee Why, Mosman, Rose Bay, North Ryde, and the CBD (Hunter Street). Call (02) 9960 3981 or book online.
Book Your Fractured Ankle Assessment with Our Sydney Podiatrists
If you suspect you have a fractured ankle, don’t delay seeking care. The experienced podiatrists at ModPod Podiatry can assess your injury, guide you through your recovery, and help you get back to full function. With clinics across Sydney in Dee Why, Mosman, Rose Bay, North Ryde, and the CBD, expert ankle care is always close by. Book online today or call (02) 9960 3981.
