The human foot contains 26 bones, and when combined with the ankle, they account for over a quarter of the bones in the entire body. These structures endure immense stress daily, supporting body weight while facilitating movement. As a result, fractures in the foot and ankle are common injuries that require specialized care to prevent long-term complications. Proper foot and ankle fracture treatment is essential to ensure a full recovery.

At Northwest Extremity Specialists, our Portland-area podiatrists provide expert evaluation and treatment for all types of foot and ankle fractures, from stress fractures to complex breaks.

Signs and Symptoms of Foot and Ankle Fractures

If you have suffered a foot or ankle injury, watch for the following symptoms:

• Pain and tenderness in the affected area
• Swelling and redness
• Bruising or discoloration
• Visible deformity or misalignment of the foot
• Limping or difficulty walking
• Inability to bear weight
• Limited range of motion in the foot or ankle

For additional information on fracture symptoms and complications, visit the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).

Types of Foot and Ankle Fractures

Foot and ankle fractures are categorized based on severity, location, and displacement. Understanding the different types of fractures helps determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

1. Simple vs. Compound Fractures

• Simple (Closed) Fracture: The bone is broken but does not pierce the skin.
• Compound (Open) Fracture: The broken bone breaks through the skin, increasing the risk of infection and requiring immediate emergency care.

2. Stress Fractures

• Tiny hairline cracks in the bone, usually caused by repetitive stress (e.g., running, jumping).
• Commonly occur in the metatarsal bones (forefoot).
• If left untreated, stress fractures can worsen into complete fractures.
• Learn more about stress fractures from the Cleveland Clinic.

3. Stable vs. Unstable Fractures

• Stable Fracture: The bone remains aligned and can typically heal without surgery.
• Unstable Fracture: The bone is displaced and may require surgical realignment.

4. Comminuted Fractures

• A severe type of fracture where the bone is shattered into three or more pieces.
• Often results from high-impact injuries (e.g., car accidents, falls).
• Requires surgery to reconstruct the bone.

5. Avulsion Fractures

• A tendon or ligament pulls a small fragment of bone away from the main bone.
• Common in children due to growth plate vulnerability.
• Frequently occurs near the fifth metatarsal bone (outer edge of the foot).

Treatment for Foot and Ankle Fractures

Foot and ankle fractures must be treated promptly to prevent complications such as non-union (failure to heal), chronic pain, or post-traumatic arthritis. Treatment options vary based on the severity and type of fracture.

1. RICE Therapy (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)

• Rest – Stay off the injured foot to prevent further damage.
• Ice – Apply ice packs for 15–20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling.
• Compression – Use a bandage to provide stabilization.
• Elevation – Keep the foot raised above heart level to reduce inflammation.

2. Immobilization

• Casts, braces, or walking boots help stabilize the foot and ankle while the bone heals.
• Crutches may be required to avoid putting weight on the injury.

3. Advanced Therapies

• Shockwave therapy and regenerative medicine may be used to accelerate healing.
• These treatments promote bone repair and reduce inflammation.

For more details on regenerative treatments for fractures, visit the National Library of Medicine.

4. Surgical Intervention

• Unstable or complex fractures often require surgical realignment.
• Plates, screws, or wires may be inserted to secure the bones in place.
• Surgery can be minimally invasive or require open reconstruction.

For an in-depth look at surgical treatments for foot fractures, see the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS).

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Seek urgent medical care if you experience:

• Severe pain that does not improve with rest
• Obvious deformity or misalignment of the foot or ankle
• Numbness, tingling, or cold sensation in the foot
• An open wound with visible bone (compound fracture)
• Inability to move or bear weight on the injured foot

Delaying treatment for a foot or ankle fracture can lead to permanent complications, including chronic instability, arthritis, or improper bone healing.

Contact a Portland-Area Podiatrist for Foot and Ankle Fracture Treatment

At Northwest Extremity Specialists, our board-certified podiatrists specialize in foot and ankle trauma care. Whether your fracture requires immobilization, regenerative therapy, or surgical intervention, we provide expert, patient-centered treatment to ensure the best possible recovery.

Contact your nearest Northwest Extremity Specialists office today to schedule an evaluation and receive the best care for your foot or ankle injury.