Ankle Injury: Seeking Opinions on Treatment Options and Recovery

Ankle injury

Hello Doctor, I am the patient who anonymously posted about ligament issues on January 3rd.
Following your advice, I went to a large hospital for a re-examination.
The doctor said there is a fracture and dislocation in my ankle, which was not detected on the day of the injury.
The Western medicine side suggested surgery, while my original Chinese medicine practitioner said surgery is not necessary and that it can be gradually realigned.
Since there is a significant difference in opinions between the two sides, I would like to seek further advice.
Is it still possible to realign the injury after three weeks? If it can be realigned, what potential complications could arise? Thank you for your response.

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/11

Dr. Lü Bingcheng reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

1.
The results from your examination at the major hospital indicate that you have a fracture and dislocation in your ankle.
It has been three weeks since the injury, and the Western medicine doctor believes surgery is necessary, while the traditional Chinese medicine practitioner thinks it can be gradually realigned.
2.
Personally, I believe that since the ankle fracture and dislocation have been present for three weeks, if the traditional Chinese medicine practitioner is confident in their ability to perform the realignment, it may be worth trying.
As for any potential complications after the realignment, that will depend on the subsequent consolidation and medical care.
I recommend having a thorough discussion with both your Western and traditional Chinese medicine doctors before making the best decision.

Reply Date: 2022/01/11

More Info

In dealing with ankle injuries, particularly those involving fractures and dislocations, it is crucial to understand the nature of the injury, the treatment options available, and the potential for recovery. Based on your description, you have received conflicting opinions from both Western and traditional Chinese medicine practitioners regarding the necessity of surgery for your ankle injury.
Firstly, it is important to clarify the nature of your injury. A fracture, especially if it is a hairline fracture or a more significant break, can lead to instability in the joint if not treated properly. Dislocations, on the other hand, involve the bones in the joint being out of their normal position, which can also lead to complications if not addressed promptly. The fact that your injury was not diagnosed correctly on the day of the incident adds a layer of complexity to your situation.

Regarding your question about whether the ankle can still be "re-aligned" or "reduced" after three weeks, the answer is somewhat nuanced. In general, the sooner a dislocation is treated, the better the outcome. After three weeks, the surrounding tissues may have started to heal in a misaligned position, which can make reduction more difficult and potentially less effective. If the bones have begun to heal in an incorrect position, attempting to realign them may not only be challenging but could also lead to further complications, such as damage to the surrounding ligaments, nerves, or blood vessels.

If you are considering non-surgical options, it is essential to understand the risks involved. Non-surgical treatment may involve physical therapy, bracing, or other conservative measures, but if the injury is significant, these methods may not restore full function or stability to the ankle. Additionally, improper healing can lead to chronic pain, instability, and arthritis in the joint later on.

On the other hand, surgical intervention may provide a more definitive solution, especially if there is significant displacement of the bones or if the ligaments are severely damaged. Surgery can realign the bones and stabilize the joint, allowing for a more predictable recovery. Post-surgery, a structured rehabilitation program is crucial to regain strength and mobility.

In terms of recovery, if surgery is performed, the timeline can vary based on the severity of the injury and the surgical technique used. Generally, it may take several weeks to months for the ankle to heal sufficiently to return to normal activities, and rehabilitation will play a key role in this process.

In conclusion, while it is understandable to seek multiple opinions, it is crucial to weigh the risks and benefits of each treatment option. If you are leaning towards a non-surgical approach, ensure that you are closely monitored by a healthcare professional who can assess your progress. If you opt for surgery, make sure to follow a comprehensive rehabilitation program to maximize your recovery. Ultimately, the goal is to restore function and minimize the risk of long-term complications. It may also be beneficial to seek a consultation with an orthopedic specialist who has experience with ankle injuries to help guide your decision-making process.

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