|  | Conditions Treatments | Bone Fracture

What Is a Chronic Ankle Fracture?

A chronic ankle fracture is one that does not heal properly or gets worse over time. Once you have broken your ankle, you are vulnerable to additional fractures and sprains. An acute fracture can turn into a chronic one if healing does not happen as quickly and thoroughly as it should. A stress fracture following the initial injury, a non-union healing, or other health conditions can complicate healing.

  1. Acute Fracture

    • An acute ankle fracture either means that one of the three ankle bones (tibia, fibula and talus) has broken or that the malleolus (bump at end of fibula or tibia) has been fractured. An acute ankle fracture happens suddenly upon high impact or twisting the ankle.

    Chronic Fracture

    • A chronic fracture gets worse with time, with possible continued pain, swelling and loss of function. Additionally, chronic pain could result from ligament or tendon damage.

    Non-union Fractures

    • A break that does not heal properly is a non-union fracture. Six to eight weeks after the initial injury, the bone may still be weak or remain unfused. This is more likely to occur if you smoke, abuse alcohol or have chronic conditions like arthritis.

    Stress Fractures

    • A stress fracture is caused by overuse. It takes time to develop and does not present like an acute fracture (swelling and intense pain). It also might be aggravated by improper footwear, poor stretching or uneven walking surfaces. A stress fracture can become chronic if you do not rest or immobilize the ankle.

    Other Causes

    • Obesity, high-impact sports, multiple falls, osteoporosis, arthritis of the ankle joint, ankle deformity or diabetes might cause an acute ankle fracture to become chronic. If you have chronic ankle pain, see a medical professional for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Bone Fracture - Related Articles