Do You Really Need to Wait Six Weeks for a Mild Ankle Fracture?

Does a mild ankle fracture really need to wait six weeks for healing?

Hello, I fell while playing basketball and was stepped on, resulting in a mild fracture of my left ankle.
I have been in a removable splint for three weeks.
Currently, I feel no pain when standing, but today's X-ray still shows the fracture, although it has decreased in size.
Is it true that walking could easily cause displacement in this case?

Xitun Jeremy, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/14

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

If there is a possibility of displacement, it is best to avoid excessive movement.
Ankle fractures typically take at least six weeks to heal, and in some cases, it may take up to three months for complete recovery.

Reply Date: 2016/04/14

More Info

When dealing with a mild ankle fracture, especially one that has been immobilized with a splint or cast, it is essential to follow the recommended healing timeline to ensure proper recovery. In your case, you mentioned that you have been in a removable splint for three weeks and that the X-ray shows the fracture has not fully healed yet, although it appears smaller. This situation raises several important considerations regarding your recovery and the necessity of waiting for a more extended period before resuming full activity.

Firstly, it is crucial to understand that while you may not feel pain when standing, the absence of pain does not necessarily indicate that the bone has healed sufficiently. Bone healing is a complex biological process that involves several stages, including inflammation, repair, and remodeling. Even if the fracture line appears smaller on the X-ray, it does not guarantee that the bone is strong enough to bear weight or withstand the stresses of walking or running.
Typically, for mild fractures, a healing period of about six weeks is standard. This timeframe allows the body to form a callus around the fracture site, which is essential for stabilizing the bone. If you were to start walking or putting weight on the injured ankle too soon, there is a risk of displacing the fracture, which could lead to complications such as delayed healing or non-union (where the bone fails to heal properly).
In your case, since the fracture is still visible on the X-ray, it is advisable to continue using the splint and avoid putting weight on the ankle until you receive further guidance from your healthcare provider. They may recommend another follow-up X-ray after a few weeks to assess the healing progress. If the fracture shows signs of healing and you are symptom-free, your doctor may then allow you to gradually start weight-bearing activities.

Additionally, the risk of re-injury or complications increases if you resume activities too early. Even if you feel confident in your ankle's stability, the underlying bone structure may still be vulnerable. Therefore, it is essential to listen to your body and adhere to medical advice.

In summary, while it may be tempting to return to normal activities, especially if you feel no pain, it is crucial to wait for the recommended healing period of around six weeks for a mild ankle fracture. This approach will help ensure that the fracture heals correctly and reduces the risk of complications. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making decisions about resuming physical activities, as they can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation and healing progress.

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