Question 1

How do I know if I have a foot or ankle fracture instead of just a sprain?

Accepted Answer

It can be difficult to tell the difference between a severe sprain and a fracture without an X-ray. However, pain directly over the bone, significant swelling, visible deformity, an inability to bear weight, or hearing a crack at the time of injury all increase the likelihood of a fracture. If you cannot walk more than a few steps or the pain is severe, you should be evaluated and X-rays should be taken.

Question 2

When should I see a specialist for a foot or ankle fracture?

Accepted Answer

You should see a foot and ankle specialist as soon as possible if you suspect a fracture, especially if the ankle or foot looks crooked or deformed, you cannot put weight on the leg, the skin is broken, or you have numbness or tingling. Complex fractures, deformity, open wounds, or injuries that are not improving in a splint or cast should be managed by a surgeon who routinely treats lower extremity trauma.

Question 3

What are the most common types of ankle fractures?

Accepted Answer

Common ankle fractures include lateral malleolus fractures (outside of the ankle), medial malleolus fractures (inside of the ankle), bimalleolar and trimalleolar fractures involving multiple parts of the ankle, and pilon fractures, which affect the bottom of the tibia at the top of the ankle joint. Treatment depends on the pattern and stability of the fracture and can range from a boot or cast to surgical fixation with plates and screws.

Question 4

Do all foot and ankle fractures need surgery?

Accepted Answer

No. Many stable fractures can be treated without surgery using a cast, boot, brace, or stiff-soled shoe. Surgery is usually recommended when the bones are out of place, the joint is unstable, the skin is at risk, or the fracture pattern has a high risk of not healing correctly without fixation. The decision is based on the specific bone involved, the alignment on X-ray or CT scan, your activity level, and your overall health.

Question 5

How long does it take a foot or ankle fracture to heal?

Accepted Answer

Most foot and ankle fractures take about 6 to 8 weeks for the bone to heal, but full recovery of strength, balance, and function can take several months. Complex injuries, fractures that involve joints, smokers, diabetics, and patients with poor circulation may take longer to heal. Rehabilitation, physical therapy, and gradual return to weight bearing are important parts of the recovery process.

Question 6

What can happen if a foot or ankle fracture is not treated correctly?

Accepted Answer

If a fracture heals in the wrong position (malunion) or does not heal at all (nonunion), it can lead to chronic pain, deformity, difficulty walking, and early arthritis in the joints. In severe cases, especially when there is poor blood flow or infection, there can be a risk to the limb itself. Dr. David Gitlin and the Lower Extremity Foot & Ankle Surgery practice specialize in limb salvage, complex reconstruction, and revision surgery for fractures that did not heal properly.

Question 7

Can you treat complex or previously operated foot and ankle fractures?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A significant part of our practice is devoted to complex cases and revision surgery, including malunions, nonunions, deformity after previous surgery, bone infection, and limb salvage. We use advanced techniques such as reconstructive surgery, external fixation and Ilizarov methods, and microsurgical soft tissue coverage when needed to restore alignment, function, and limb viability.

Question 8

Do you see patients from outside Florida and New York?

Accepted Answer

Yes. More than half of our patients travel from more than 100 miles away for highly specialized lower extremity care that is not always available locally. We regularly see patients from across the United States and internationally, and we assist with coordinating care and follow-up for out-of-town and medical tourism patients.