ankle fracture

A crack, break, or complete shattering of a bone in the ankle. It usually involves the bottom end of the fibula when the athlete rolls over on the ankle. Signs and symptoms are similar to an ankle sprain. Confirmation that a swollen, painful ankle is fractured often requires an X-ray examination. Treatment will depend on the severity of the fracture. A splint may be applied if there is no displacement, but surgical replacement and fixing of the bones may be necessary if there is displacement. Recovery time varies, but it usually takes at least 4 months before an athlete can return to full activity.