How To Know If You Have An Ankle Fracture | Ankle Pain Specialist in New Orleans
Your ankle is a very important part of your body. It helps to carry your whole weight and support your balance. So, when your ankle is in distress, moving about might become a problem.
Ankle pain can be very difficult to deal with. Therefore, in this article, you'll learn about when you have an ankle fracture, what to do when you have one and where to find the best ankle specialist in New Orleans.
What Is An Ankle Fracture?
Your ankle comprises three bones; the tibia, fibula and the talus. When any of these bones break due to extreme pressure or force, it's called an ankle fracture.
An ankle fracture can occur in accidents, extreme sporting activities, falling from a high distance and other activities that apply too much force on the ankle.
Also, wear and tear on two or more ligaments in the ankle joint can cause ankle fracture. Depending on the severity, ankle fracture can cause a slight crack in your bone and can even pierce a part of your skin.
Symptoms Of An Ankle Fracture
Below are some of the most common symptoms of ankle fracture:
Severe Pain
The pain is felt immediately after the impact. It is usually unbearable and requires immediate first aid treatment.
Usually, after a bad fall or accident, you might receive first aid treatment. If after first aid, the pain doesn't reduce, then you should visit an Orthopedist.
Swelling/Tenderness
Overtime, the affected area might start to swell. It becomes bigger than the other unaffected ankle. The area feels tender to touch.
The swelling makes the pain much more unbearable and might even complicate the problem if not given thr right treatment.
Bruising
The impact of the fall determines if there would be bruising. Usually, bruising is part of the symptoms of a fracture. Although, bruising only cannot completely determine a fracture.
Difficulty Walking or Moving Around
Your ankle helps to carry your body's weight. So when one ankle is injured, walking and moving around becomes very difficult and almost impossible.
In minor cases, you might end up limping or leaning on objects for support while moving around.
After a dangerous fall or severe pressure on your ankle, it is important to get an X-ray and other examination done in order to ascertain the extent of damage.
It will also help your Orthopedist to evaluate your condition and prescribe the best treatment method for you.
Treatment Of Ankle Fracture
There are a variety of treatment options for ankle fracture, depending on the severity and extent of damage.
Some of these methods include:
- Compression
- Ice packs
- Medicine
- Therapy
- Elevation
After an injury to your ankle, you should get proper diagnosis from one of the best ankle pain specialists in New Orleans, as ankle fractures can easily be mistaken for ankle sprains.
If you need a specialist in sports medicine in New Orleans, you can find one by contacting us at 504-217-5236 or book an appointment with Dr Luis Espinoza and our team of specialists.
Conclusion
Generally, pain in any part of your body should not be treated with levity. So, if you ever have elbow pain, or any pain, getting treatment should be your priority before anything else.