How long does a lateral malleolus fracture take to heal?
In general, it takes at least 6 weeks for the broken malleolus to heal.
What is an avulsion fracture of the lateral malleolus?
An avulsion fracture is where a fragment of bone is pulled away at the ligamentous or tendinous attachment. It can be caused by traumatic traction (repetitive long-term or a single high impact traumatic traction) of the ligament or tendon. This occurs as tendons can bear more load than the bone.
How long does it take for an avulsion fracture of the ankle to heal?
Depending on your injury, it may take eight weeks or more for the fracture to heal. Rest the area during that time. If your ankle or hip is fractured, you may need to use crutches to keep weight off the affected area. Your recovery could take longer if you need surgery.
How long does it take for an avulsion fracture to heal?
An avulsion fracture is not always serious, and rest may the best treatment. However, medical help should be sought if symptoms occur. A person with a more severe fracture may need to wear a cast for 6 to 8 weeks to allow the bone to heal. Fractures commonly take between 3 to 12 weeks to heal.
Is a lateral malleolus fracture serious?
Anyone with a lateral malleolus fracture should be examined for signs of a more serious, unstable ankle fracture. 2 The good news is that isolated lateral malleolus fractures are often stable ankle fractures and do not have this problem, although it is important to see a specialist to differentiate between the two.
Can you still walk with a lateral malleolus fracture?
You may walk on the leg as much as pain allows, and if you have been given a boot you should gradually use it less and less over four to six weeks as the pain settles. Sometimes the pain may persist but if you are walking further each day this is not uncommon. Most injuries heal without any problems.
Does a lateral malleolus fracture need surgery?
Lateral malleolar fractures are the most common type of ankle fracture. Isolated lateral malleolar fractures can be treated with or without surgery, depending on their location and placement. Stable fractures treated without surgery can often be safe for immediate protected (in a boot) weight bearing.
What is the fastest way to heal an avulsion fracture?
Treatment of an avulsion fracture typically includes resting and icing the affected area, followed by controlled exercises that help restore range of motion, improve muscle strength and promote bone healing. Most avulsion fractures heal very well without surgical intervention.
Is it bad to walk on an avulsion fracture?
You can walk on your injured foot as long as it is not too painful. If you were given crutches, you can stop using these as you feel able to. You should take the boot off when you are resting. You do not need to wear it at night.
Can lateral malleolus fracture heal without surgery?
Fractures of the lateral malleolus are the most common type of ankle fracture. These injuries typically occur when the ankle is either twisted or rolled, often with an awkward or uneven step. Most lateral malleolus fractures are considered to be stable ankle fractures and can be treated without surgery.
How painful is an avulsion fracture?
What Does An Avulsion Fracture Feel Like? Symptoms of an avulsion fracture of the ankle can be felt from the moment the trauma occurs and can be very painful. Because the injury is likely the result of a twisting movement, avulsion fracture ankle pain may present similar to an ankle sprain.
How long do you have to wear a boot for an avulsion fracture?
An avulsion fracture of the ankle can take between three and 12 weeks to heal. Most often, those with orthopedic walking boots or casts will need to wear them for six to eight weeks.
