Ankle Fractures from Car Accidents: Pain and Recovery Insights

Regarding ankle fractures caused by car accidents?

Regarding the ankle fracture pain caused by a car accident, the accident occurred on June 23, 2015, and an X-ray confirmed a fracture of the left lateral malleolus.
After the cast was removed on August 12, 2015, rehabilitation was initiated in the physical therapy department.
By September 12, 2015, the patient was able to walk without the use of two crutches.
However, the ankle continued to experience pain and issues with range of motion, making it difficult to walk or stand for extended periods, and descending stairs was particularly challenging.
Recently, there has been a sensation of numbness in the foot, and the injured area remains swollen, with accompanying pain in the calf.
During a recent follow-up appointment, the doctor mentioned that the X-ray indicated a possible previous hairline fracture in the calf, but it was not severe.
Instead, the damage to the ligaments and soft tissues from the ankle fracture was more significant, as the foot was inverted and compressed by the vehicle at the time of injury.

I would like to ask how the numbness in the foot can be improved.
If the ligaments are injured, what is the typical recovery time? Also, could you please confirm if the area highlighted in red on the X-ray is where the calf fracture is located? Would not addressing the calf fracture at the time pose any issues? Attached are the X-ray images: http://i.imgur.com/Pk1c12J.jpg http://i.imgur.com/yFy9E6r.jpg.
Thank you.

Xiao Feng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/26

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

If a fracture is non-displaced, surgery is not necessary.
Ankle injuries typically take about three months to gradually heal, while numbness may take approximately six months to fully recover.

Reply Date: 2015/10/26

More Info

Understanding ankle fractures resulting from car accidents can be quite complex, especially when considering the associated pain and recovery process. Based on your description, it seems you have experienced a left ankle fracture, which was confirmed via X-ray, and you have undergone rehabilitation following the removal of your cast. However, you are still experiencing pain, limited mobility, and sensations of numbness in your foot, which can be concerning.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that pain following an ankle fracture can be attributed to several factors. After an injury, the body goes through a healing process that involves inflammation, which can lead to swelling and discomfort. In your case, the fact that you are still experiencing pain and swelling in the ankle area, as well as pain in the calf, suggests that there may be ongoing issues related to the injury.
The mechanism of injury you described—where your foot was inverted and compressed by the vehicle—can lead to not only fractures but also significant soft tissue damage, including ligament injuries. Ligaments are the connective tissues that stabilize joints, and if they are injured, they can lead to chronic pain and instability in the affected area. This could explain the persistent pain and difficulty with mobility you are experiencing.

Regarding the numbness in your foot, this could be indicative of nerve involvement, possibly due to swelling or compression from the surrounding tissues. It is crucial to monitor these symptoms, as they may require further evaluation. If the numbness persists or worsens, it would be advisable to consult with your healthcare provider to rule out any nerve damage or other complications.

As for the healing time for ligaments, it can vary significantly depending on the severity of the injury. Mild sprains may heal within a few weeks, while more severe injuries can take several months to heal completely. Rehabilitation typically focuses on restoring range of motion, strength, and stability to the joint. Physical therapy can be beneficial in this regard, as it helps to strengthen the muscles around the ankle and improve overall function.

Regarding the potential bone crack in your calf, if it was not treated at the time of the injury, it could lead to complications such as improper healing or chronic pain. It is essential to follow up with your physician regarding the X-ray findings and to discuss any concerns about the calf injury. If there is a suspicion of a fracture or other issues, further imaging or treatment may be necessary.

In summary, the pain and numbness you are experiencing following your ankle fracture are not uncommon, but they do warrant further investigation. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, adhere to your rehabilitation program, and report any new or worsening symptoms. This proactive approach will help ensure the best possible recovery and return to normal activities.

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