Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Fractured Ankle
What is a broken ankle?
A broken ankle, also known as a Pott’s fracture, occurs when one or more of the bones forming the ankle joint are fractured. These bones include the large bony prominences on the inside (medial malleolus) and outside (lateral malleolus) of the ankle. Following a broken ankle, physiotherapy is essential to restore movement, strength, and function, and to ensure a safe return to normal activities.
How does a broken ankle happen?
A broken ankle commonly occurs when the foot and ankle are forcibly twisted inwards or outwards. This mechanism, which can also cause an ankle sprain, may fracture the bones forming the ankle joint. Other causes include stepping on uneven surfaces, treading on a ball or an opponent’s foot, or any forceful twisting of the foot relative to the leg.
What are the symptoms of a broken ankle?
If you experience a broken ankle, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Avoid putting any weight on the injured ankle and keep it immobilized. Applying ice, elevating the ankle, and using compression can help reduce swelling and pain until professional treatment is received.
- Bruising around the ankle
- Tenderness to touch
- Numbness or tingling in the foot
- Instability or a feeling that the ankle may give way
- Limited range of motion in the ankle joint
What should I do if I have a broken ankle?
A broken ankle is a serious injury that requires prompt medical attention. You should go to your nearest accident and emergency department immediately to ensure proper assessment, imaging, and treatment.
What shouldn’t I do if I have a broken ankle?
To prevent further damage, you should avoid walking on your injured leg. Additionally, you should refrain from activities that increase blood flow to the ankle, as this can worsen swelling. These activities include taking hot showers, applying heat rubs, and consuming alcohol.
Physiotherapy treatment for a broken ankle.
With a broken ankle, you should go immediately to your nearest accident and emergency department. If the bones are in an acceptable position, your ankle will usually be placed in a cast. If the bones are not properly aligned, surgery may be required to fixate them in the correct position. Typically, the ankle will remain in a cast for six to eight weeks.
After your cast is removed, your initial assessment with a physiotherapist usually takes place. Physiotherapy should begin immediately to optimise recovery. At Physio.co.uk, our physiotherapists coordinate closely with your surgeon when needed, leveraging experience with a variety of orthopaedic post-operative protocols to ensure a safe and effective rehabilitation.
- Gentle range of motion exercises to restore movement in the ankle
- Stretching exercises to improve flexibility of the calf muscles and Achilles tendon
- Strengthening exercises for the muscles around the ankle and lower leg
- Balance and proprioception exercises to improve stability and prevent future injuries
- Gait retraining to restore a normal walking pattern
- Soft tissue mobilization or massage to reduce stiffness and swelling
- Advice on footwear and activity modifications during recovery
Could there be any long-term effects from a broken ankle?
Most broken ankles heal within a few months without complications. However, some fractures—especially those that do not receive adequate rehabilitation—can lead to long-term effects. These may include persistent pain, stiffness, swelling, and an increased risk of developing ankle arthritis in later years.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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