Hello Doctor,
I hurt my ankle about two months ago. It was a bad sprain, and I also ended up with two fractures in a bone called the fibula, along with a small piece of bone chipping off. I followed the treatment plan you gave me, wearing a boot for two weeks and then switching to an air cast. But even after all this time, my ankle still hurts, especially on the outside of the arch. Putting on shoes is uncomfortable too because the top of my foot hurts. I've been limping because of it. What else could be wrong with my foot, and what should I do about it?
Hello, Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the below response to your query.
In cases where a sprain is accompanied by fractures, the process of healing takes approximately 4-6 weeks for the bones to fully mend. Your adherence to the recommended treatment regimen is commendable. However, it is essential to explore additional factors that could be contributing to your ongoing discomfort.
Firstly, it's prudent to ascertain whether there are any discrepancies in the length of your legs, or if the injured foot might be slightly longer. Discrepancies in leg length can predispose individuals to biomechanical issues, potentially exacerbating symptoms such as those you're experiencing.
Secondly, trauma to the foot can disrupt its microarchitecture, leading to changes in its structure and function. In such cases, employing physiotherapy techniques and engaging in activities like walking on sand can aid in rehabilitation. However, before embarking on such exercises, it's advisable to undergo a 3D scintigraphic examination to rule out any deeper-seated injuries that may not be immediately apparent.
Furthermore, it's crucial to recognize that fibula fractures, being relatively small bones akin to those in the wrist, can sometimes evade detection. Hence, it's prudent to reassess your condition, particularly through the lens of MRI imaging, which can reveal subtle signs such as edema, providing valuable diagnostic insights.
In conclusion, while your diligent adherence to the prescribed treatment is commendable, persistent symptoms warrant a comprehensive evaluation to identify and address any underlying issues. Rest assured, our priority remains ensuring your swift and complete recovery.
Thank you.
