Ankle Fracture Specialist
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Southeastern Sports Medicine and Orthopedics
Gregory Lavigne, MD
Orthopedic Surgeon & Reconstructive Surgeon located in Asheville, NC & Arden, NC
If you live in or around Asheville, North Carolina, and sustain an ankle fracture, seeking treatment can help you regain your ability to walk normally, and also help avoid future complications. Dr. Gregory Lavigne of the Pardee Hospital Southeastern Sports Medicine and Orthodontics team has the skill and experience needed to repair a wide range of joint issues, which is why so many men and women in the area trust him with all of their orthopedic needs. If you encounter an ankle fracture, schedule a consultation with Dr. Lavigne by calling the office or using the simple online scheduling tool.
Ankle Fracture Q & A
What is an ankle fracture?
An ankle fracture is a break in one or more of the bones that make up your ankle joint. These joints are often underappreciated until a problem arises.
When you consider the enormous strain placed on your ankle joints each and every day, it’s surprising that issues don’t arise more often.
Your ankle joint contains three bones: the tibia, fibula, and talus. A fracture can occur on any side of these bones, and can be relatively simple or incredibly complicated.
How do I know if I have an ankle fracture?
In some cases, as with a traumatic injury, it becomes immediately apparent that you’ve sustained a broken ankle. Often, however, you’re still able to walk on a broken ankle, which can make it hard to know when to seek medical care.
Symptoms of an ankle fracture include:
- Pain, including pain in your foot or knee
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Difficulty walking on the affected ankle
- Blisters on or near your ankle
If a few days of rest, elevation, and icing the area doesn’t yield improvement, it’s time to schedule an appointment with Dr. Lavigne for a thorough diagnostic work-up.
How are ankle fractures repaired?
Dr. Lavigne creates a customized treatment plan based on the specifics of your ankle injury. He works in partnership with you to help you decide on the best course of action for your needs and goals.
In some cases, immobilizing the ankle joint with a cast or a special orthopedic boot allows your body’s natural healing process to take place. You may need to wear your cast or boot for several months to allow the fracture or fractures to heal.
More severe ankle damage might require surgery to realign the fractured bones and restore proper joint function. Dr. Lavigne is skilled in multiple surgical techniques to repair fractured bones and damaged soft tissue within the joint.
After your surgery, Dr. Lavigne provides thorough instructions for care and physical therapy. Following his guidance is essential to regaining full use of your ankle.
If you suffer a traumatic ankle injury or suspect that you’ve sustained a fractured ankle, book an appointment with Dr. Lavigne for thorough diagnostic and treatment options.
