Why do I need fracture care?   

Fracture care is a personalized treatment plan to promote healing when you have a minor to complex break in one or more of your bones. You may need foot and ankle fracture care if you have any of the following conditions:

• Ankle fractures
• Stress fractures
• Broken toes or bones in your foot
• Malunion fractures where your bones heal incorrectly

It’s also important to have a comprehensive evaluation if you twisted your ankle and think it might be sprained. In many cases, the symptoms of an ankle sprain mimic fractures, meaning you need a thorough diagnosis. Early medical intervention is important to set and immobilize any bones that may be fractured, so they can properly heal.

When should I see a podiatrist for fracture care?

The highly skilled podiatry team at Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists encourages you to come in for a comprehensive fracture care evaluation as soon as your injury occurs, especially if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Inability to bear weight on your injured foot or ankle
• Bony bump or deformity 
• Limited range of motion
• Swelling or tenderness
• Bruising or redness
• Open wound

You should also book an evaluation at Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists if you’re experiencing chronic foot pain that seems to be worse during exercise or sports. This could indicate a stress fracture, which is one of the most common injuries runners develop. 

What can I expect from fracture care?

When you come to Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists for your exam, your dedicated podiatrist conducts in-office X-ray imaging to determine the severity of your fracture, in addition to performing a comprehensive exam. Once your podiatrist determines the severity of your injury, they can talk with you about your fracture care treatment plan.

Most broken bones heal over time with immobilization, such as a cast or walking boot. But to ensure your bones are lined up properly for optimal healing, your podiatrist may need to perform a reduction procedure. A closed reduction involves realigning your bones without making any incision.

For more complex fractures, you may need a reduction surgery (open reduction). This type of procedure may involve putting your bones back into proper alignment and implanting any devices — like rods, screws, or plates — to keep your bones in place. 

Once your broken bone is immobilized, your podiatrist at Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists counsels you on lifestyle changes you need to make to help your fracture heal. You might need to start physical therapy after several weeks to restore strength and flexibility. Fracture care treatment plans can take up to about 8-12 weeks, or sometimes longer, depending on how quickly you heal. 

You can book your fracture care appointment at Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists right through the website, or you can call any office directly if you need a same-day evaluation.