A fibular fracture is a break to your fibula caused by a forceful impact that results in injury. It can also happen when there’s more pressure or stress on the bone than it can handle. The fibula is a bone in the lower leg stretching from the knee to the ankle and visible from the outside. It supports your ankle and lower leg muscles. Fibular
fractures are a common injury seen in the ER. The fracture may cause the bone to break into two pieces or several smaller pieces. Here’s what you need to know about them. There are different types of fibular fractures. The type you experience depends on the kind of bone injury you have, where it happened, and how serious it is. Here are some of the most common fibular fractures. Fibular
fractures are usually caused by: Sometimes fibular fractures can also be the result of child abuse or overuse of the bone. Fibular fractures can show the following
symptoms:
Fibular fractures are usually treated as
emergencies. You should visit a doctor if you suspect you have such a fracture. Call 911 or your local emergency helpline number if there’s been a high-energy injury such as a motor vehicle accident or gunshot wound. Also, get immediate medical help if you see any of the following: Your doctor will physically examine your injury and run tests to understand the type of injury and how serious it is.
Recovery PeriodIt 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. Your doctor will prescribe medication to help you manage any pain that you're experiencing. You may also be asked to visit the doctor again and take x-rays to see how well your bone is healing. When you're able to start moving your leg or ankle, your doctor may recommend physical therapy or exercises, also called rehabilitation. It's important to follow these exercises. They can help you heal faster, remove stiffness, and improve your range of motion. Ask your doctor when you can resume normal activity or weight-bearing exercises. Also, ask for your doctor's advice before you get back to sports activities. Can a fibula fracture 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.
Can you still walk with a broken 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.
What is the fastest way to heal a broken fibula?Elevate the injured leg as much as possible, during sitting and sleeping. One key to success after fibula bone fracture surgical procedure is to decrease swelling by compression and elevation. The faster the swelling subsides, the faster is the recovery.
How long should I stay off a broken fibula?After an injury, it can take up to 12-16 weeks to make a full recovery. Your doctor will use X-rays to see how well your fracture is healing. They'll also look to see when they can remove the screws, if you have them.
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