Ankle Fractures
Date issued: March 2019
For review: March 2021
Ref: A-403/MY/Physiotherapy/Ankle Fractures
PDF: ankle fracture [pdf] 536KB
Basic Anatomy
The three main bones within the ankle joint are: the Tibia, the Fibula and the Talus. These bones are connected by ligaments, muscles and tendons
Management
Treatment is dependent upon the type of fracture you have. You will be followed up in fracture clinic and may be referred to Physiotherapy Outpatients for on-going management
Daily activities
You may find certain activities difficult due to pain, or reduced mobility. The Occupational Therapist can support you by assessing you for equipment to make tasks easier. Equipment needed can be provided for discharge from hospital.
You may be issued a walking aid (crutches or frame) and shown how to use these by the Physiotherapist You will not be allowed to drive with a cast or boot on. Contact the DVLA or visit the DVLA website for more information
Backslab
This is a non-weight bearing cast which has a gap in the front of the cast to allow for swelling. As it is a non-weight bearing cast, you are unable to walk on the cast. Usually you are discharged home with this and walking aid with a Fracture Clinic follow up several days later to check swelling and to further your care.
POP/Dynacast
In fracture clinic, if your swelling has reduced sufficiently, the doctor will remove your ‘backslab’ and apply a cast known as a ‘POP’ or dynacast. Once applied the doctor will inform you how much weight you can put through the cast. This may remain as non-weight bearing.
Aircast Boot/Stirrup
Depending on the location and type of your fracture you may be put into an ‘Aircast’ boot or stirrup. These are usually used for fibula fractures. Some will a fracture clinic follow up, others will not. You will be informed of this decision prior to your discharge If using an ‘Aircast’, the doctor will inform you how much weight you can put through the boot.
It normally takes approximately 6 weeks for your fracture to heal, but this does vary depending on the individual. It is important to keep your leg elevated when at rest to reduce swelling.
