*Crutches – Since most types of ankle fractures require some degree of immobilization and rest following the injury, crutches play an important part in recovery. A fiberglass cast is most often used if some healing has taken place or if the fracture is not unstable. If it is determined that the cast is needed to hold the broken bone in a specific location, then a plaster cast is usually applied since plaster molds to the skin better. The cast is made of either fiberglass or plaster. However, if the swelling is minimal, it may be applied sooner. *Cast- After a few days, a cast will be placed on the ankle area. Resetting the ankle bone will improve the alignment of the broken bones. In this case, the patient will be given anesthesia while the ankle fracture is set or aligned. However, if there is bone separation, a “reduction” should be performed. If the damaged ankle is not extremely displaced, the splint may be applied immediately without moving the broken ankle. In the case of continued swelling, a splint allows for more room than a cast. The splint usually remains on the leg for a few days before applying a cast. *Splint- Applying a splint to an ankle fracture is most commonly performed in the emergency room. The X-ray of the damaged ankle will help determine the proper course of treatment. The initial procedure is to obtain an X-ray of the damaged ankle to determine what the fracture looks like, how separated the bones are, and to find out the condition of the bone itself. *X-rays- A majority of ankle fracture patients are treated in an emergency room or a doctor’s office. By limiting the amount of swelling, the pain from the ankle fracture will be decreased as well as preventing further damage to the surrounding tissue. An important part of proper treatment is to reduce this swelling. *Elevation and ice- In most patients, swelling is often seen following an ankle fracture. *Compression Wraps- To prevent further swelling, keep the ankle wrapped in an elastic bandage or stocking. *Ice- Applying ice to the injured area several times a day until the pain and swelling resolves is advised. In some cases, prescription pain medications are needed to provide adequate relief. *Medications- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may be needed to reduce pain and inflammation. *Early Physical Therapy- A doctor will start a rehabilitation program as soon as possible to promote healing and increase range of motion and strength. *Immobilization- Depending on the severity of the injury, a short-leg cast, walking boot, or brace will keep the ankle from moving. A Rothman foot and ankle surgeon may recommend one or more of the following treatment options: In the case of an ankle sprain, rehabilitation is crucial and starts early.
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