Specialised treatment for ankle fractures
An ankle fracture is a break in one or more bones that make up the ankle joint.
Sometimes ligaments may also be damaged.
ankle fractures frequently asked questions
What are the signs and symptoms of an ankle fracture?
Common symptoms of an ankle fracture include pain and swelling around the ankle, bruising, tender to touch, inability to walk on the leg, and deformity if the ankle is dislocated.
What are the causes of an Ankle fracture?
Ankle fractures are most often caused by motor vehicle accident, rolling or twisting of ankle, and by tripping or falling. People participating in sports such as basketball, football and soccer are at a high risk of developing ankle fractures. It is important to use proper fitting shoes for the particular sports activity to reduce the chances of injury.
How is an ankle fracture diagnosed?
Following an ankle injury it is important to have the ankle evaluated by your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Diagnosis is made based on the history of injury and physical examination of the ankle. In addition, the surgeon may order X-rays of the ankle to determine the extent of the injury.
What are the treatment options for an ankle fracture?
Treatment varies with the type and severity of the injury. The common method of treatment of ankle fractures is adequate rest, ice application, leg elevation, and medications to reduce swelling and pain. A short leg cast or a brace may be applied over the fractured ankle to provide support. If there is severe injury, excessive swelling or severe pain, you should seek immediate medical treatment.
Some ankle fractures are treated with a splint, which is placed on the ankle for few days until the swelling subsides. Once the swelling decreases a cast may be placed on the ankle to hold the broken bone in a specific place. Surgery may be needed to realign the bones before placing the splint. During surgery, your doctor may place metal screws, plates, or rods to hold the broken bone intact until the healing happens. In some cases, crutches may be used to prevent the ankle from bearing weight.
It is important to use proper fitting shoes for the particular sports activity to reduce the chances of injury.
Ankle & foot treatments
Ankle Arthroscopy
Ankle arthroscopy is most often performed to remove scar tissue and inflammation or to remove small detachments of bone and cartilage. Recent advances have permitted surgical procedures to be performed inside joints without opening the joints by traditional methods. Using
Ankle Block for Foot Surgery
Nearly all mid and forefoot surgery can be comfortably and reliably performed using local anaesthesia (ankle block). Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Surgeon, Dr George Dracopoulos and Anaesthetist, Dr Glenda Rudkin have recently completed a six year study of 1000 patients
Ankle Ligament Reconstruction
At Orthopaedics SA, we provide high-quality care for all of your musculoskeletal needs, including ankle ligament reconstruction surgery, a medical procedure that is used to treat ankle sprains and instability. Ankle ligaments are tough bands of tissue that connect the
Keyhole (Minimally Invasive) Bunion Surgery
Minimally invasive (keyhole) bunion surgery is a technique that reduces the size of the incisions during the surgical procedure. Using specialised small tools, your surgeon performs the entire bunion removal surgery through several small cuts, reducing scarring and recovery time.
Open Bunion Surgery
There are over 150 different surgical options for correcting a bunion, but they all tend to involve moving the bone(s) to narrow the foot and realign the big toe as well as shaving off the bunion. Keyhole bunion surgery is
Total Ankle Replacement
Though a generally uncommon procedure, total ankle replacement can drastically reduce pain and restore movement, particularly in people who suffer from conditions such as ankle arthritis. Operating from locations across Adelaide, Orthopaedics SA surgeons supply uniquely tailored assessments and treatments
Why Orthopaedics SA?
Comprehensive care
From arthritis to sports injuries, we treat a full spectrum of bone and joint conditions to keep you moving.
Expert surgeons
Our highly trained doctors have years of experience delivering precise and effective treatments.
SA’s largest practice
With 23 specialists, we offer unmatched expertise and evidence-based care for every patient.
Multiple locations
We have multiple clinics across South Australia, making it simple to find expert care nearby.
Patient-centric approach
We prioritise understanding your condition to ensure every treatment recommendation feels right for you.
Reliable support
Our team of nurses and administrative staff works behind the scenes to make your experience smooth and stress-free.
Meet our doctors
Our surgeons are highly qualified to offer personalised treatments tailored to your needs. We take the time to listen, explain your options, and ensure every decision is made with your well-being in mind.
We take responsibility for our patient’s experience
From your initial consultation to follow-up care, our team will guide you through every step of your treatment. Your specialist will provide a detailed recovery plan, including physical therapy to restore function and prevent future injuries.