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Can a fibula fracture heal on its own?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I twisted my ankle, which is now swollen and bruised. I took an X-ray, and it revealed a fractured fibula. I can still walk and bear a lightweight on my leg. It does not hurt too much. I would like to know if surgery is required or whether it will heal naturally. Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Ranvir Sachin Tukaram

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

The X-ray attached (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity) indicates a fracture and swelling around your ankle, as you have mentioned. If you start putting weight on your leg, the fracture will not heal. In addition, I need to see the X-ray films from the surgery. If the fracture is not displaced and the bones are aligned, it can be repaired with plaster. In case the fracture is displaced, surgery is required. Please share X-ray images with me for a better understanding.

I hope this helps.

Please revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.

The Probable causes

The probable cause is trauma.

Treatment plan

For treatment, I suggest conservative and operative management.

Preventive measures

For preventive measures, I suggest the following: 1. Avoid putting weight on the leg and elevate the limb.

Regarding follow up

Follow-up to be done with X-rays.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

I do not have my X-ray report with me at the moment. However, I believe the fracture was not displaced. I did receive the walking boots. Is it possible to treat bruises, or will they heal independently? Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Ranvir Sachin Tukaram

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

You can apply cold packs twice a day to bruises. Avoid hanging your leg while sleeping. Keep limbs over pillows to avoid swelling and bruising.

I hope this helps.

Please revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Answered byDr. Ranvir Sachin Tukaram

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At July 31, 2022
Reviewed AtSeptember 6, 2024

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Ranvir Sachin Tukaram
Dr. Ranvir Sachin Tukaram

Orthopedician and Traumatology

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