Fractures of the Ankle

Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains are a common sports injury. The usual mechanism is inversion, or “turning your ankle over”. This can result in varying degree of tearing to the stabilizing ligaments on the side of your ankle. Treatment decisions are based on the severity of the injury and follow the basic principles of rest, ice, compression, and elevation (“RICE”). For most sprains, rehabilitation exercises, taping, or a compressive ankle brace are adequate. More severe injuries may require casting or, rarely, surgical reconstruction of the ligaments.

Ankle fractures

Fractures around the ankle in children will often involve the growth plate.  It is important to distinguish an “ankle sprain” from a true fracture of the growth plate.  This is not always easy to do.  All but the simplest if ankle sprains should have an x-ray to look for a fracture of the growth plate.  If the fracture involves either the growth  plate or the weight-bearing surface of the ankle, surgery is often required to protect from growth arrest and other problems.