According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), ankle fractures occur in 184 per 100,000 persons per year. Ankle fractures can range from a stress fracture, which is a small crack in one of the ankle bones, to bones broken in multiple pieces that pierce the skin. The risk of complications increases with increased severity of the fracture.
Nerve or Vessel Damage
The broken bones in an ankle fracture may injure surrounding nerves or blood vessels and result in permanent loss of sensation, movement or blood flow to the foot. Therefore, it is important to seek immediate medical treatment after a break to make sure adequate blood flow is entering the foot. Once adequate blood flow is restored, a doctor will check sensation and range of motion of the ankle to determine the health of surrounding nerves.
Bone Infection
In the most severe ankle fractures, a bone infection can occur if the fractured bone breaks the skin. The Mayo Clinic states that exposed bone is more susceptible to becoming infected. Furthermore, a bone infection can cause other serious complications that include an infection that spreads to the entire body or an amputation of the foot or leg. Bone piercing the skin should never be touched until properly treated by medical personnel.
Compartment Syndrome
Compartment syndrome is a neuromuscular condition that causes pain, swelling and disability around the lower leg. This occurs because swelling from the ankle fracture can extend into the lower leg and damage surrounding nerves and blood vessels. The Mayo Clinic states that this is a possible complication of an ankle fracture that can have devastating outcomes if not promptly treated. A doctor can relieve the pressure associated with compartment syndrome by surgically cutting the tissue that surrounds the lower leg.
Osteoarthritis
According to the Mayo Clinic, ankle fractures that extend into the joint can cause arthritis in the future. Osteoarthritis, specifically, is a condition in which the cartilage of the joint is worn down and bone spurs form. This can result in pain, swelling and inflammation in the ankle. On the other hand, arthritis may occur in a previously fractured ankle, but may not cause symptoms. Those with a previously fractured ankle that begins to hurt prematurely should schedule an appointment with a doctor. X-rays will determine the cause of the symptoms.
