Can you still walk with a fractured fibula?

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.

How long does it take for a fibula fracture to heal?

It and the tibia, the larger bone, therefore, support all of your weight when standing. Because of this and unlike other types of injuries and conditions, a broken fibula usually requires six weeks to three months before patients are able to return to their normal routine.

How is a fractured fibula treated?

The general process for healing a fibula fracture is immobilization with a splint or cast for several weeks, after which you might get a walking boot to help you walk. Recovery time depends on factors such as: the severity of the injury and the presence of any other injury at the same time.

Can a fibula fracture heal without surgery?

Fibula Fracture With Ankle Injury Often, surgery is needed to make the ankle joint stable. Without surgery, the ankle joint may heal without being properly aligned. Over time, that can lead to ankle arthritis. A fibular fracture may also involve damage to the syndesmosis of the ankle.

Will a broken fibula heal itself?

Fibula Treatment Should Begin Immediately When a patient arrives in the clinic with an ankle injury, ice is applied to reduce swelling, and the leg is elevated. We may recommend a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug to relieve pain. Most patients are advised to use crutches.

Does a broken fibula require surgery?

If the syndesmosis is damaged at the ankle, you might need surgery to re-align the bones. Fibular fractures with ankle injuries will usually require surgery.

How bad is a broken fibula?

Fractured fibulas typically heal with no further problems, but the following complications are possible: Degenerative or traumatic arthritis. Abnormal deformity or permanent disability of the ankle. Long-term pain.

What should you do to heal a fibula fracture?

Rest the fractured bone. Try to put minimal weight on the injured fibula. Maintain healthy diet, as eating clean, healthy food will fulfil your needs of vitamins and minerals that are required for fracture bone healing. Make sure you are getting sufficient calories and protein, which is essential for bone health.

What are the symptoms of a broken fibula?

Pain, swelling, and tenderness are some of the most common signs and symptoms of a fractured fibula. Other signs and symptoms include: Inability to bear weight on the injured leg. Bleeding and bruising in the leg. Visible deformity. Numbness and coldness in the foot. Tender to the touch.

How do you repair a broken fibula?

Surgery on the Fibula. The most common way to repair a fractured fibula bone is with a metal plate and screws. Typically the plate is applied to the outside of the bone, with at least three screws above the location of the fracture, and at least three screws below.

How long does it take for a fibula stress fracture to heal?

Fractures typically heal in 3 months. Follow the instructions of your orthopaedic surgeon and be patient.