Early Signs of Ankle Fractures | Foot & Ankle Centers TX

Ankle injuries can happen to anyone—during a sports activity, while walking on uneven ground, or even from a simple misstep at home. While some injuries may just be sprains, others can result in fractures that require prompt medical attention. Recognizing the early signs of an ankle fracture is crucial for proper healing and avoiding long-term complications. In this guide, we’ll walk through the common symptoms, why early treatment matters, and what to do if you think you’ve fractured your ankle. 

What Is an Ankle Fracture?

An ankle fracture is a break in one or more of the bones that make up the ankle joint: the tibia (shinbone), fibula (the thinner bone next to the tibia), and talus (the bone connecting the leg to the foot). Fractures can be minor or severe—ranging from small cracks to full breaks that require surgery.

Common Symptoms of an Ankle Fracture

If you’ve injured your ankle, look out for these signs:

• Sharp pain at the time of injury, often worsening with movement

• Swelling and bruising that can spread to the foot or leg

• Difficulty walking or putting weight on the foot

• Tenderness and stiffness in the ankle area

• Visible deformity if the bones are significantly out of place

If you’re in Frisco, Little Elm, or McKinney, the experienced team at the Foot & Ankle Centers, including Dr. Tavakoli, Dr. Knapp, and Dr. Treleven, is here to help you heal and get back on your feet.

Same-Day Emergency Care When You Need It Most

At Foot & Ankle Centers, we understand that foot and ankle injuries can happen unexpectedly. That’s why we offer same-day emergency care at all three locations—Frisco, Little Elm, and McKinney. Our expert team provides prompt evaluation and treatment to reduce pain and start your healing process right away.

Why Early Diagnosis Is So Important

Getting your ankle evaluated early can help prevent complications and lead to a smoother recovery.

Timely diagnosis offers several key benefits:

• Prevents long-term joint damage or arthritis

• Reduces swelling and supports faster healing

• Helps you avoid extended rehabilitation

With three convenient locations, our team at Foot & Ankle Centers understands that fast, expert care makes all the difference. Our expert podiatrists are here to provide thorough evaluations and personalized treatment to help you heal properly

What to Do After an Injury

If you suspect a fracture, follow these initial steps while awaiting medical care:

1. Rest – Avoid putting weight on the injured foot.

2. Ice – Apply a cold pack to reduce swelling. Wrap it to protect your skin.

3. Compression – Lightly wrap the ankle with a bandage to control swelling.

4. Elevation – Raise your foot above heart level as often as possible.

After that you should schedule a visit with a foot and ankle specialist. Our doctors use physical exams, X-rays, and advanced imaging like extremity MRI to accurately diagnose and guide your treatment.

Treatment Options for Ankle Fractures

Treatment depends on the location and severity of the fracture. Common options include:

1. Immobilization – A splint, boot, or cast is used to protect the bone while it heals. This is typical for stable fractures.

2. Surgery – For more serious breaks, surgery may be needed to realign the bones using screws, plates, or pins.

3. Physical Therapy – After the initial healing phase, therapy helps restore strength, flexibility, and balance.

At every step, the Foot & Ankle Centers team creates treatment plans that fit your individual needs and help you recover fully.

Recovery and Long-Term Care

Recovery continues even after the pain subsides. Keeping up with post-treatment care is essential for long-term ankle health.

• Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress

• Watch for lingering symptoms, like swelling or limited mobility

• Do prescribed exercises to rebuild strength and reduce the risk of re-injury

At Foot & Ankle Centers, we know rehabilitation is key to keeping your ankles strong and preventing future problems—not just treating injuries.

Book Your Appointment Today

If you’re dealing with ankle pain, don’t wait for it to worsen. Early treatment gives you the best chance at a full recovery. Whether you're in Frisco, Little Elm, or McKinney, the trusted team at the Foot & Ankle Centers—Dr. Tavakoli, Dr. Knapp, and Dr. Treleven—is here to help.

Taking care of your feet and ankles isn’t just about comfort—it’s about keeping you moving confidently in your everyday life.