Causes and Symptoms of Broken Ankle
The causes and symptoms of broken ankle injuries are diverse, ranging from everyday mishaps to high-impact accidents. Recognising the causes and symptoms of broken ankle fractures is crucial for early treatment and long-term recovery.
Causes of Broken Ankle:
- Falls
Tripping or falling from a height often leads to a twisted or direct impact that fractures the ankle bones. Uneven ground or poor footwear increases the risk. - Sports injuries
Activities like soccer, netball, running, and basketball involve rapid direction changes or jumps, putting stress on the ankle joint. Contact sports also carry higher risk. - Motor vehicle accidents
Crushing injuries or sudden impact in a car crash may break multiple ankle bones and require surgery. - Twisting or rolling the ankle
A simple misstep—like stepping into a hole—can twist the foot with enough force to break the bones. - Weak or brittle bones
Osteoporosis, especially in older adults, increases fracture risk even with minimal trauma.
Symptoms of Broken Ankle:
- Intense pain at the time of injury, often worsening with movement
- Swelling around the joint, sometimes spreading up the leg
- Bruising that appears within hours
- Inability to stand or walk
- Deformity if the bones are misaligned or displaced
- Tenderness to the touch
- A grinding or popping sound at the moment of fracture
If you’re unsure whether an injury is a sprain or fracture, it’s safest to assume it’s serious until proven otherwise. An untreated broken ankle can lead to complications like chronic instability, arthritis, or improper healing.
In South Africa, emergency rooms and trauma clinics are equipped to perform X-rays to confirm the diagnosis. Early intervention limits damage and helps ensure a smooth recovery.
Being familiar with the causes and symptoms of broken ankle injuries empowers patients to act quickly and avoid long-term complications.
👉 [Next: Diagnosis and Evaluation of Broken Ankle]
