An ankle fracture among Singapore athletes involves the breaking, in whole or part, of any of the bones that make up the ankle. Ankle fractures are commonly the result of a fall, a leap, or even from participating in certain activities or experiencing an accident.

The degree of complexity of a fracture varies. However, seeking medical attention after suffering an injury is crucial to measure what you’ll need to recover.

An ankle fracture usually heals in 6-12 weeks, though it may take less time if surgery is unnecessary. Total healing time depends on several factors, including how severely you broke your bone, how healthy you are, and how old you are.

Aside from seeing an orthopaedic or physical therapist, self-discipline and lifestyle changes also matter.

What Characterises An Ankle Fracture?

Ankle fractures occur when one or both bones on either side of the ankle joint break. Ankle fractures have a few categories depending on the number of broken bones. The bone can fail in many places, from a little hairline fissure to several pieces.

Many types of injuries, including falls, car accidents, and sports-related collisions, can result in bone fractures. Repetitive stress, such as that experienced during jogging, or the bone-weakening disease osteoporosis can also contribute to these injuries.

It sometimes begins or happens along with a painful ankle ligament tear. An ankle fracture of sufficient severity may cause visible deformity or the appearance of bone protruding through the skin.

Warning signs of a broken bone

• When a foot or ankle gets broken, you may experience the following signs and symptoms:
• Over-the-bone swelling or bruising
• Physical abnormality in the arms or legs, such as a hump, a bend, or a twist
• Discomfort in the wounded area that gets worsened by motion or pressure.
• Disability in extending the limbs
• Ankle pain upon movement, contact or bending
• Having to avoid using the damaged foot or ankle for any activity
• Bruising
• Obvious deformity

Diagnosing ankle fracture

When a bone gets shattered, it’s usually apparent right away. You could hear a snapping or popping noise. You can expect tenderness, swelling, and discomfort in the area around the fracture. The affected limb may be permanently malformed, or a bone fragment may pierce the skin.

For anyone with an ankle fracture in Singapore, it’s best to visit an orthopaedic specialist since they confirm a diagnosis and assess injury severity.

How To Successfully Recover From Ankle Fracture

1. Stay away from any strenuous activities.

For some patients, rest is the most challenging part of their treatment. Keeping still is difficult when you have to go around all day doing chores, especially for athletes who prefer to exercise. However, weight-bearing might pose a danger even for people getting ACL surgery in Singapore or healing from it.

2. Follow RICE method

Pain, redness, and discolouration are common reactions to an ankle fracture. Using the RICE method, rest, ice, compression, and elevation are best. Despite wearing a cast or boot for support, you should be cautious to avoid hitting your leg or ankle against anything.

3. Slowly return to your daily routine.

Even for a patient with an ankle ligament tear, forcing yourself and your body will only extend your recovery period. If you broke your ankle and had surgery, it may be a while before you can return to your routine. To prevent problems, such as the bone shifting out of place, it is best to carefully increase the number of exercises.

Keep things slow and steady at first. When a bone gets subjected to stress too quickly, complications might arise. You should also take a break if you’re in pain while doing something. As your ankle recovers, your doctor will check on it to ensure everything is going well.

4. Familiarise yourself with the assistive device

Before you leave the hospital, your doctor will fit you with a walker or other assistive device to help you go around. You may receive a brace, a walker boot, or crutches; regardless of the type, you’ll need time to adjust to using them.

5. Take precautions

In light of your reduced mobility, your home must reflect this change. It may involve removing stacks of boxes on the way to making everything accessible. Patients who undergo bunion surgery in Singapore also take extra precautions by preparing their homes beforehand. You can keep your peace of mind and sense of security by taking measures to protect your home.

6. Wear loose-fitting pants and shorts

Worn-out or ill-fitting jeans constitute a significant discomfort. It’s best to wear bottoms that make you feel comfortable. This way, you won’t have difficulty getting in and off them. You’ll also find it easier to choose which one won’t feel stressful or suffocating.

7. Maintain a close eye on signs

Keep a journal or use a mobile app to record your symptoms to keep track of them while you heal. An ankle fracture experienced by Singapore athletes may take time to fully recover and may result in signs like swelling and recurring pain. Immediate attention to a problem can prevent persistent pain and arthritis from developing.

8. Develop healthy eating habits

The role that diet plays in the healing process. Taking supplements with calcium and vitamin D in an ankle fracture is crucial for maintaining and restoring bone health. A diet rich in colourful fruits and dark green leafy vegetables must also maintain optimal health.

Consult your doctor to ensure you get the recommended amount of vitamins and minerals daily.

9. Collaborate with your orthopaedic

The end goal of your rehabilitation is to get your ankle back to how it was before the fracture. Some people who suffer an ankle fracture in Singapore may never regain their full range of motion or average walking pace, depending on the type and severity.

Make sure to discuss everything with your doctors to manage your expectations.

Get better with expert assistance.

Are you dealing with an ankle fracture in Singapore? Specialist Orthopaedic Centre provides orthopaedic surgery, rehabilitation, and other treatment options for people with musculoskeletal injuries. Their extensive background in orthopaedic surgery and our focus on each patient allows them to treat everything from common injuries to more severe diseases. Make an appointment today.