Expert Ankle Fracture Treatment in Mount Pleasant, SC
An ankle fracture can make it difficult or impossible to bear weight, walk, or perform everyday activities. Whether your injury resulted from a fall, sports injury, workplace accident, or motor vehicle collision, prompt evaluation is essential for proper healing and long-term ankle function.
Blake Ohlson, M.D. provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for ankle fractures in Mount Pleasant, SC, offering personalized care to restore stability, reduce pain, and help patients return to their active lifestyles.
As a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and regenerative medicine specialist, Dr. Ohlson treats simple and complex ankle fractures using evidence-based non-surgical and surgical techniques. Every treatment plan is tailored to the type of fracture, the stability of the ankle joint, your activity level, and your recovery goals. From casting and bracing to advanced fracture fixation surgery and rehabilitation, Dr. Ohlson focuses on achieving optimal healing while minimizing the risk of future complications.
Ankle Fracture Specialist in Mount Pleasant, Charleston and Summerville, SC
Ankle fracture is a condition where there is a break in one or more bones forming the ankle joint. It occurs from excessive rolling and twisting of the ankle often resulting in swelling, severe pain around the ankle and impaired mobility. Blake Ohlson, M.D. provides expert diagnosis and individualized non-operative and operative treatments for ankle fractures in Mount Pleasant, SC. Contact Blake Ohlson, M.D.’s team for an appointment today!
What is an Ankle Fracture?
Ankle injuries are very common in athletes and individuals performing physical work; often resulting in severe pain and impaired mobility. Pain after ankle injuries can either be from a torn ligament (ankle sprain) or broken bone (ankle fracture).
An ankle fracture is a painful condition where there is a break in one or more bones forming the ankle joint. The ankle joint is stabilized by different ligaments and other soft tissues, which may also be injured during an ankle fracture.
What is the Normal Ankle Anatomy?
The ankle joint is composed of three bones: the tibia, fibula, and talus, which articulate together. The ends of the fibula and tibia (lower leg bones) form the inner and outer malleolus, which are the bony protrusions of the ankle joint that you can feel and see on either side of the ankle. The joint is protected by a fibrous membrane called a joint capsule and filled with synovial fluid to enable smooth movement.
What are the Common Causes of Ankle Fractures?
Ankle fractures can occur from excessive rolling and twisting of the ankle - usually from an accident or activities such as jumping or falling, which cause sudden stress to the joint.
What are the Symptoms of an Ankle Fracture?
With an ankle fracture, there is immediate swelling and pain around the ankle as well as impaired mobility. In some cases, blood may accumulate around the joint - a condition called hemarthrosis. In the case of a severe fracture, deformity around the ankle joint is clearly visible where a bone may protrude out piercing the skin.
What are the Types of Ankle Fractures?
Ankle fractures are classified according to their location. The different types of ankle fractures are:
- Lateral malleolus fracture, in which the lateral malleolus, the outer part of the ankle, is fractured
- Medial malleolus fracture, in which the medial malleolus, the inner part of the ankle, is fractured
- Posterior malleolus fracture, in which the posterior malleolus, the bony hump of the tibia, is fractured
- Bimalleolar fractures, in which both lateral and medial malleolus bones are fractured
- Trimalleolar fractures, in which all three lateral, medial and posterior bones are fractured
How is an Ankle Fracture Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of an ankle injury begins with a review of your history and a thorough physical examination. This is followed by X-rays and CT scan of the injured area to obtain a detailed view.
In some cases, pressure is applied on the ankle and then special X-rays are taken. This procedure is called a stress test. This test is ordered to determine the stability of the fracture under stress and decide on the need for surgery. In complex cases where a detailed evaluation of the ligaments is required, an MRI scan is recommended.
What are the Treatment Options for Ankle Fractures?
Immediately following an ankle injury and prior to seeing a doctor, you should apply ice packs and keep the foot elevated to minimize pain and swelling. The treatment of an ankle fracture depends upon the type and the stability of the fractured bone. Treatment starts with non-surgical methods, and in cases where the fracture is unstable and cannot be realigned, surgical methods are employed.
For non-surgical treatment, the ankle bone is realigned and special splints or a plaster cast is placed around the joint for at least 2-3 weeks to allow the bones to heal.
With surgical treatment, the fractured bone is accessed by making an incision over the ankle area and then specially designed plates are screwed onto the bone to realign and stabilize the fractured parts. The incision is then sutured closed and the operated ankle is immobilized with a splint or cast.
What is the Postoperative Care for an Ankle Fracture?
After ankle surgery, you will be instructed to avoid applying weight on the ankle and advised using crutches while walking for at least six weeks.
Physical therapy of the ankle joint will be recommended by your doctor. After 2-3 months of therapy, you may be able to perform daily normal activities.
What are the Risks and Complications of an Ankle Fracture Treatment?
The risks and complications that can occur with ankle fracture treatment include improper casting or improper alignment of the bones which can cause deformities and eventually arthritis. In some cases, pressure exerted on the nerves can cause nerve damage, resulting in severe pain.
Rarely, surgery may result in incomplete healing of the fracture, which requires another surgery for repair.
If you would like to have additional information on the treatment of ankle fractures, please contact Blake Ohlson, M.D., serving the communities of Mount Pleasant, Charleston and Summerville, SC.
Why Choose Dr. Blake Ohlson for Ankle Fracture Treatment in Mount Pleasant, SC?
Proper treatment of an ankle fracture is essential to restore alignment, preserve joint function, and reduce the risk of long-term arthritis or instability. Dr. Blake Ohlson combines advanced orthopedic expertise with individualized care to ensure each patient receives the most appropriate treatment for their specific injury.
Patients throughout Mount Pleasant, Charleston, Summerville, and surrounding communities choose Dr. Ohlson because he provides:
- Board-certified orthopedic expertise in foot and ankle trauma
- Comprehensive evaluation using physical examination and advanced imaging
- Personalized treatment plans based on fracture type and severity
- Expertise in both conservative fracture care and surgical fixation
- Advanced surgical techniques designed to restore proper bone alignment
- Comprehensive rehabilitation programs to regain strength, mobility, and function
- Patient-focused care that emphasizes safe recovery and return to work, sports, and daily activities
Dr. Ohlson is committed to helping patients heal properly while reducing the likelihood of chronic pain, stiffness, instability, and post-traumatic arthritis.
Ankle Fracture FAQs
How do I know if I have an ankle fracture or just a sprain?
Both injuries can cause pain and swelling, but an ankle fracture often results in severe pain, difficulty or inability to bear weight, significant swelling, bruising, and sometimes visible deformity. An examination and X-rays are necessary to determine the exact injury.
What causes ankle fractures?
Ankle fractures commonly occur due to falls, sports injuries, twisting injuries, motor vehicle accidents, or any event that places excessive force on the ankle joint.
How are ankle fractures diagnosed?
Diagnosis begins with a medical history and physical examination. X-rays are typically the first imaging study performed. CT scans or MRI may be recommended for complex fractures or to evaluate associated ligament injuries.
Can an ankle fracture heal without surgery?
Yes. Stable fractures with proper bone alignment can often be treated successfully with immobilization using a cast or walking boot. Regular follow-up imaging helps ensure the bones continue healing correctly.
When is surgery necessary for an ankle fracture?
Surgery may be recommended if the fracture is unstable, displaced, involves multiple bones, or cannot be properly aligned with non-surgical treatment. The goal is to restore normal joint anatomy and stability.
How long does it take to recover from an ankle fracture?
Healing times vary depending on the severity of the fracture and the treatment performed. Many patients require several weeks of protected weight-bearing followed by physical therapy, with full recovery often taking several months.
Will I need physical therapy after treatment?
In many cases, yes. Physical therapy helps restore ankle strength, flexibility, balance, and range of motion while reducing stiffness after immobilization or surgery.
What complications can occur after an ankle fracture?
Potential complications include stiffness, delayed healing, improper bone alignment, chronic instability, post-traumatic arthritis, nerve irritation, and, in surgical cases, infection or hardware-related problems. Early treatment and appropriate follow-up help minimize these risks.
Schedule Ankle Fracture Evaluation in Mount Pleasant, SC
If you've suffered an ankle injury and are experiencing severe pain, swelling, or difficulty walking, don't delay seeking medical evaluation. Dr. Blake Ohlson provides comprehensive ankle fracture treatment in Mount Pleasant, SC, offering accurate diagnosis, personalized care, and advanced treatment options to promote proper healing and restore ankle function.
Whether your injury requires non-surgical management or surgical fracture repair, Dr. Ohlson and his team are dedicated to helping you recover safely and return to the activities you enjoy.
Contact our office today to schedule an evaluation and receive a personalized treatment plan for your ankle fracture.