There is no doubt why fractures have become common all across the globe. One of the commonest reasons that we find for the same is numerous causes of fractures plus, they could affect people of all age groups, even newborns during the time of birth. Besides this, fractures can be seen in any of the bones present in our body.

Fractures may be common but sometimes, they could be severe enough that they become life-threatening. Severe fractures always require surgical intervention and they will also require orthopedic implants to stabilize broken bones.

Experienced Orthopedic Device Manufacturers are always known to provide international standard quality implants.

Our focus here in this post is to discuss one of the common fractures that affect the ankle joint, and such fractures are known as lateral malleolus fractures.

Lateral Malleolus Fracture – An Overview

The two bony bumps present on either side of the ankle joint are known as malleoli, and the one on the outer side is known as lateral malleolus. So, the fractures occurring on the outer malleoli of the ankle joint are called lateral malleolus fractures. They are among the common broken bone conditions that affect the ankle joint. Plus, these fractures are also known to be stable ones in maximum cases, and hence, no surgery is required for the treatment.

Causes of Lateral Malleolus Fractures

There are multiple causes of the condition and the most common is a sudden twisting of the ankle while walking, running, or playing any outdoor sport. Besides this, a break in the lateral malleolus could also be seen due to a fall or a direct impact on the malleoli with a solid object due to a traumatic event or other reasons.

Symptoms of Lateral Malleolus Fractures

Pain is always there when a fracture occurs, it could be mild, moderate, or intense depending upon the cause and location of the injury. Similarly, pain is also seen in people with lateral malleolus fractures. Sometimes it could also occur on the inner malleoli along with the outer one and other parts of the foot & ankle, and this could be a sign of more serious injury.

In some cases, bruising and swelling are also noticed in the inner malleoli and this could indicate a bimalleolar equivalent fracture.

Diagnosis of Lateral Malleolus Fractures

As lateral malleolus fractures are not serious in most cases, the diagnosis can be made by a physical examination that involves monitoring swelling, bruising, and painful areas & movements. Along with this, the healthcare service provider will also ask about the cause of injury.

Imaging tests like X-rays will also be ordered to visualize the severity and exact location of the fracture to opt for correct treatment.

Treatment of Lateral Malleolus Fracture

The treatment is provided as per the reports generated during the diagnosis. Though no surgery is required to fix lateral malleolus fractures as they are reported stable in maximum cases yet, severe unstable fractures may require surgical intervention.

• The conventional treatment methods may include:
• Application of ice on the affected area
• Elevating the injured ankle above the heart to curb swelling
• Prescribed NSAIDs
• Rest and immobilization of the ankle

Sometimes, different types of ankle support like walking casts, walking boots, and ankle braces are recommended for weight-bearing.

To get a CE-certified range of orthopedic devices required for the surgical treatment of lateral malleolus fractures and other orthopedic conditions, contact Siora Surgicals Pvt. Ltd., an experienced trauma implants manufacturer in India. The company also exports its products to numerous clients and is also looking to become one of the reliable Orthopedic Instruments Suppliers Indonesia.