Foot & Ankle Fractures And Sprains

What are the most common foot and ankle injuries?

Arizona Foot & Ankle Specialists treats a wide range of injuries that affect the foot and ankle, including:

Sprains and strains

Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments that support your ankle tear after stretching beyond their means. Strains happen when muscle tissue becomes stretched and torn. Both injuries can result from suddenly twisting or rolling your ankle.

Foot fractures

Each foot contains 26 bones. When one or more of these bones break, you have a foot fracture. Arizona Foot & Ankle Specialists treats all types of foot fractures, including toe fractures and metatarsal fractures. 

Ankle fractures

Three bones make up your ankle joint: the two bones of your lower leg (tibia and fibula) and a small bone called the talus. Any of these bones can break as a result of twisting your ankle, tripping and falling, or direct impact such as a motor vehicle accident.

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

When it comes to foot and ankle injuries, the symptoms of a sprain are very similar to those of a fracture. That’s why it’s so important to get an accurate diagnosis from the professionals at Arizona Foot & Ankle Specialists.

Common signs and symptoms of a foot or ankle sprain or fracture include:

• Immediate, intense pain
• Swelling 
• Bruising
• Tenderness
• Inability to carry weight on the injured foot

Broken bones may also cause a visible deformity, or appear as though the bone is out of place. If your injury caused pieces of bone to pierce through your skin, go to an emergency room right away. 

How are foot and ankle injuries treated?

First, your provider at Arizona Foot & Ankle Specialists examines your foot and asks you to describe how the injury occurred. They may take an X-ray to check for broken bones. 

Treatment depends on the type and severity of your injury and may include:

• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
• Immobilization in a cast or brace
• Physical therapy

Severe injuries may require surgery to repair torn ligaments or realign broken bones. Dr. Cox is a highly trained foot and ankle surgeon.

If you or a loved one has a foot or ankle injury, call Arizona Foot & Ankle Specialists or book an appointment online today.