What type of fracture is a fibula fracture?
The fibula supports the tibia and helps stabilize the ankle and lower leg muscles. Tibia and fibula fractures are characterized as either low-energy or high-energy. Low-energy, nondisplaced (aligned) fractures, sometimes called toddler’s fractures, occur from minor falls and twisting injuries.
Where is a fibular fracture?
Fibula fractures occur around the ankle, knee, and middle of the leg. There are different types of fractures, which can also affect treatment and recovery. These types include: lateral malleolus fracture, a break around the ankle.
What causes a fibula fracture?
A fibula fracture is used to describe a break in the fibula bone. A forceful impact, such as landing after a high jump or any impact to the outer aspect of the leg, can cause a fracture. Even rolling or spraining an ankle puts stress on the fibula bone, which can lead to a fracture.
Can you fracture fibula and still walk?
Because the fibula is not a weight-bearing bone, your doctor might allow you walk as the injury recovers. You also might be advised to use crutches, avoiding weight on the leg, until the bone heals because of the fibula’s role in ankle stability.
Is a fibula fracture serious?
A broken tibia-fibula is a fracture in the lower leg that happens when a fall or blow places more pressure on the bones than they can withstand. A tibia-fibula fracture is a serious injury that requires prompt immediate medical attention.
How long does it take a fibula fracture to heal?
It usually takes four to six weeks to recover from a fracture, but this can vary. Sometimes, a doctor may need to recommend a surgical procedure.
Does a fractured fibula need a cast?
If your child has a broken tibia or broken tibia-fibula, they will need to wear a cast or boot for six to 12 weeks. During this time, they will probably have a long leg cast for six weeks followed by a short leg cast and then an Aircast® boot.
Can a broken fibula heal without surgery?
Surgery may be recommended, but treatment usually starts with a splint or cast to help prevent movement and allow the bone to heal. 8 If possible, your healthcare provider can realign your broken bones without surgery.
Can a fibula heal in 4 weeks?
Fibula Healing, Quickly and Completely
Fibular fracture treatment usually takes four to six weeks, as long as the patient doesn’t try to return to action too soon. Complications are uncommon, and include: Non-union of a bone that doesn’t ‘knit’ back together. Bone heals in an awkward position.
Is a broken fibula serious?
All fibula breaks are serious and can leave you unable to fully walk, or perform standard daily activities without help, for weeks or months.