A foot or ankle fracture is a break in one or more of the bones in the foot or ankle. These injuries can occur from sports, falls, car accidents, or even simple missteps. At St. Louis Foot & Ankle, our specialists provide accurate diagnosis and advanced treatment options to help patients recover safely and return to normal activity as quickly as possible.
If you believe you may have a fracture, prompt medical evaluation is essential to prevent complications and ensure proper healing.
📞 Call St. Louis Foot & Ankle at (314) 596-9670 to schedule an evaluation.
What Is a Foot or Ankle Fracture?
The foot contains 26 bones, and the ankle joint connects the leg to the foot. A fracture occurs when one of these bones cracks or breaks due to excessive force or trauma.
Fractures can range from small stress fractures to complete breaks that require surgical repair. Even minor fractures can cause significant pain and mobility issues if left untreated.
Common Causes of Foot & Ankle Fractures
Foot and ankle fractures can happen suddenly or develop over time due to repetitive stress. Common causes include:
- Sports injuries
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Car or motorcycle accidents
- Twisting injuries
- Dropping heavy objects on the foot
- Overuse from running or high-impact activities
Athletes, active individuals, and people with osteoporosis may have a higher risk of fractures.
Symptoms of a Fracture
A fractured bone in the foot or ankle often causes noticeable symptoms, including:
- Severe pain
- Swelling and inflammation
- Bruising
- Difficulty walking or putting weight on the foot
- Visible deformity
- Tenderness to the touch
Because fractures can sometimes feel similar to severe sprains, it is important to receive a professional diagnosis.
Diagnosis
At St. Louis Foot & Ankle, diagnosing a fracture begins with a thorough evaluation. Your doctor may use:
- Physical examination
- Medical history review
- Digital X-rays
- Advanced imaging if necessary
Accurate diagnosis helps determine the best treatment plan and ensures the bone heals properly.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the location, severity, and type of fracture.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Many fractures can heal without surgery using conservative care such as:
- Immobilization with a cast or boot
- Rest and limited weight-bearing
- Crutches or mobility aids
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Follow-up imaging to monitor healing
Surgical Treatment
More complex fractures may require surgery to properly align the bones. Surgical treatment may involve:
- Internal fixation with plates, screws, or pins
- Stabilization of the joint
- Repair of surrounding tissues
Our goal is always to restore proper alignment, function, and long-term foot health.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the fracture. Many patients heal within 6–12 weeks, though more complex injuries may take longer.
Your doctor may recommend:
- Gradual return to activity
- Physical therapy
- Strengthening and mobility exercises
- Supportive footwear or orthotics
Following your treatment plan carefully is key to preventing re-injury.
When to Seek Medical Care
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:
- Severe pain after an injury
- Inability to walk
- Significant swelling or bruising
- A visible deformity of the foot or ankle
Early treatment helps prevent complications and speeds up recovery.
Schedule an Appointment
If you suspect a foot or ankle fracture, the team at St. Louis Foot & Ankle is here to help. We provide expert diagnosis and personalized treatment to help you get back on your feet safely.
📞 Call (314) 596-9670 today to schedule your appointment.