Foot and ankle fractures are the most prevalent triggers of foot pain, discomfort, and sometimes disability. Most fractures take a few weeks to heal, but failure to treat them early can cause deformities. Fortunately, your podiatry Fair Lawn specialists at NYC Footcare PC offer minimally invasive treatments that restore your mobility while alleviating your pain.
What factors contribute to foot and ankle fractures?
Fractures are often due to trauma; such as twisting or rolling your ankle. Overstretching or over-flexing your joint can also cause intense pressure, causing it to break. In most cases, the temporary immobility in the affected foot, degree of pain, and the concern of a broken bone may prompt you to seek medical attention. It is almost impossible to diagnose a fracture in your foot without the help of X-ray images.
When you exert too much stress on your ankle, you may obtain a sprained ankle, but if the bone gives way, it may fracture. Factors contributing to foot and ankle fractures include sports injuries, osteoporosis, auto accidents, and trip and fall accidents. Good health and taking precautions can minimize your risk of developing a fracture, but unfortunately, you may not always be able to prevent or predict a fracture. The NYC Footcare PC specialists take over by providing excellent treatment and care to restore your ability to move without pain.
When should you seek immediate medical attention?
After an accident that causes trauma to your foot, you may need to consider several things before deciding whether to go to an emergency room or contact your doctor. If your foot can’t hold your weight, home care proves futile, or the pain persists even after taking over-the-counter medications, you may need to call your doctor. If you cannot reach your doctor, ask a loved one to drive you to the emergency department immediately. If you have a blue or cold foot, inability to wiggle your toes, gross deformity in your ankle, or bones popping out of your skin, call the emergency department immediately. Delaying any longer may increase the risk of losing your foot.
How can your doctor diagnose foot and ankle fractures?
After evaluating your joint, your doctor’s primary task is to determine if there is a fractured bone or a significantly damaged joint. The NYC Footcare PC experts discuss your lifestyle, the cause of the fracture, and symptoms. They may conduct imaging tests like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), in-office X-rays, or computerized tomography (CT) scans. These images allow the team to determine the severity of the fracture before recommending the most effective treatment plan.
Is surgery the only treatment for foot and ankle fractures?
Minor fractures don’t require surgery; adequate rest and wearing a boot or brace are enough to promote healing. Afterward, your provider monitors the fracture using imaging tests to ensure that the bone heals without any deformations. However, in cases of multiple or complicated fractures, your doctor may recommend surgery. The specialists use minimally invasive approaches to repair the bone and restore your ability to walk.
If you suspect a fracture, trust the NYC Footcare PC specialists to offer comprehensive care by calling the office or booking your spot online.
