How to heal my broken ankle?
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
My partner, who is 36-year-old, broke his ankle (fibula break) before 7.5 weeks. I had been for his appointment where he had an x-ray and found that the bone has not knitted together. He smokes approximately 10 cigarettes per day. I have found through online research, that smoking hinders bone healing and have advised him to stop, even if short term to assist with the healing of the broken bone. He had a cast for three weeks and then was transferred to a walking boot with vague instructions on how to deal with it. He is being told that he should be walking more on the ankle which is broken. But, he is worried as he will cause more damage as it is not yet aligned. Also, should he be wearing his walking boot at all times? He wears it while sleeping and he removes it while bathing daily. Please explain to him how the bone will heal and whether he should be wearing his boot all the time.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
Fibula is involved in only 15 % weight transmission in case of fracture. Weight transfer can be effectively taken up by the tibia. However, it forms the ankle joint proper and the fracture site. The fracture pattern is a must to determine before giving any comments on the treatment. Kindly share your partner's x-ray for proper advice. Yes, you are correct in saying that smoking hinders the healing process and he should refrain from tobacco smoking and other tobacco products.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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