The Benefits of Seeing a Podiatrist for Ankle Fractures

Seeing the right provider for an ankle fracture ensures an accurate diagnosis and smooth recovery. While a primary doctor can order initial X-rays, a podiatrist gives you direct access to a specialist who focuses exclusively on feet and ankles.

Adults age 21 to 30 are at the highest risk for ankle fractures, but these injuries can happen to anyone at anytime. Falls, a sudden misstep that rolls the foot inward, and direct high-impact trauma from things like motor vehicle accidents are some of the most common causes of ankle fractures.

If you have ankle pain, or if you suspect you have an ankle fracture, seeing a podiatrist for an evaluation can make an important difference in your recovery. Podiatrists have years of specialized training on a full spectrum of foot and ankle issues, and they’re best equipped to evaluate, diagnose, and treat your ankle injury.

Andrew McCall, DPM, FACFAS, brings more than 20 years of experience treating foot and ankle injuries, including sprained ankles and ankle fractures. Here’s why specialized care at Alpine Foot and Ankle matters.

Accurate diagnosis and fracture assessment

Some symptoms of other types of ankle injuries like sprains and strains overlap with those of fractures. This makes it crucial to see a foot and ankle specialist for a comprehensive evaluation.

A podiatrist evaluates the ankle to determine the location and severity of the injury and whether additional imaging is needed. This helps identify important details, including whether your bones have shifted out of alignment or whether your fracture involves the ankle joint.

An accurate diagnosis is the foundation for choosing the right treatment and reducing the risk of complications.

Personalized treatment based on your injury

Some ankle fractures can heal successfully with nonsurgical treatment, while others may require surgery to restore proper alignment and stability. Treatment may involve immobilization with a boot or cast, activity restrictions, and follow-up visits to monitor healing.

When surgery is necessary, having a specialist who routinely treats foot and ankle conditions is valuable. Dr. McCall is board-certified in foot, ankle, and rearfoot reconstruction surgery, and he can determine when surgical intervention is appropriate based on the individual injury.

Protecting long-term ankle function

The goal of treating a fracture is to help the foot and ankle heal in proper alignment so you can return to normal activities and reduce the risk of lasting problems. An improperly healed fracture is a major risk factor for chronic conditions down the line, including chronic ankle instability and ankle arthritis.

Follow-up care allows Dr. McCall to monitor your healing and determine when it’s safe to gradually increase activity.

Guidance throughout your recovery

Your ankle may remain stiff or feel weak after a period of immobilization, and returning to normal activities too quickly can increase your risk of another injury.

Podiatrists play a vital role in guiding patients safely through the transition back to weight-bearing activities and, when appropriate, recommending exercises or physical therapy to improve strength, mobility, balance, and stability.

Don’t take chances with your ankle fracture care

Ankle fractures deserve prompt evaluation by a qualified podiatrist who can accurately diagnose your injury, create the most effective treatment plan to get you back on your feet, and provide guidance every step of the way.

If you’ve injured your ankle and suspect a fracture, call us in Alpine, Wyoming, or Idaho Falls, Idaho, to schedule an evaluation with Dr. McCall. Getting the right diagnosis and treatment at Alpine Foot and Ankle puts you on the best path toward strong, stable recovery.