Please call 911 immediately if you are having chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, sudden weakness or numbness, or if you think you have a medical emergency.
Ankle Fracture Treatment
1. Leave Protruding Bone Alone
If a bone has broken through the skin, don't push it back into place. Cover the area with a clean bandage.
2. Stop Bleeding
Apply steady, direct pressure with a cloth for 15 minutes and elevate the wound. If blood soaks through, apply another cloth over the first.
3. Control Swelling
Remove ankle bracelets or toe rings.
Do RICE therapy:
Rest ankle by having the person stay off of it. Use crutches if necessary.
Ice area.
Compress by wrapping ankle lightly (not tightly) with an "ace" bandage or elastic ankle brace.
Elevateankle above heart level.
4. Manage Pain and Inflammation
Give an over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or aspirin. Do NOT give aspirin to anyone under the age of 18.
5. See a Doctor
6. Follow Up
The doctor will examine and X-ray the ankle, leg, and foot. The doctor also may do a CT or CAT scan, MRI, or stress test to determine if surgery is needed.
If needed, the doctor will set the broken bone back in place and immobilize the ankle with a splint, cast, or other device.
WebMD Medical Reference
SOURCES:
Kaiser Permanente: "Toe, Foot, and Ankle Injuries."
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: "Ankle Fractures."