Foot and Ankle Fracture Treatment in Alexandria, VA
Your feet and ankles contain 52 bones, and if you break any of them, proper treatment and expert guidance are crucial to healing correctly. At Landmark Foot & Ankle Center in Alexandria, VA , our podiatric surgeons treat everything from small stress fractures to complex foot and ankle breaks.
Book OnlineWhat Causes Foot and Ankle Fractures?
Foot and ankle fractures range from tiny cracks to severe breaks in which bone pierces the skin. They often result from:
- Auto accidents that crush or forcefully compact the foot or ankle
- Falls, including tripping or the impact of landing from a jump
- Heavy objects dropped on the top of the foot
- Missteps, such as landing awkwardly or twisting your ankle on stairs or uneven ground
- Overuse, which can cause tiny cracks called stress fractures over time
Depending on the type of work you do or how you exercise, you may be at higher risk. People with neuropathy, osteoporosis, or flat feet may also be more prone to fractures.
Signs You May Have a Fracture
Many foot and ankle fractures are small and don’t have an obvious cause, so you may have one without realizing it. For example, you might mistake a stress fracture for general foot pain from standing at work. Book an appointment right away if you have:
- Foot or ankle pain that worsens with activity
- Difficulty bearing weight
- Swelling, bruising, or tenderness
- A change in the shape of your foot or ankle
How Are Foot and Ankle Fractures Treated?
Treatment depends on the severity and location of the fracture. For a stress fracture, you’ll need to avoid putting more stress on the foot or ankle and give the bone time to heal. Your podiatrist may provide a walking boot or crutches and guide you on how to safely and gradually return to activity.
Our team will also help you adjust your exercise routine so you can stay active without overloading your feet, and may recommend sport-specific footwear and custom orthotics to reduce your risk of future injury. Learn more about our sports medicine care.
For more severe fractures, surgery may be recommended to stabilize the broken bone, followed by a boot, cast, or splint during healing. Dr. Victoria Nolte has advanced fellowship training in complex trauma and reconstructive foot and ankle surgery, and our surgeons have privileges at Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, Inova Alexandria Hospital, and Inova Fairfax Hospital.
How Can I Prevent Foot and Ankle Fractures?
- Wear supportive footwear appropriate for your job or activity
- Keep your home well lit and free of clutter
- Increase the intensity of your workouts gradually
- Address balance problems and conditions such as tendonitis early
If you need follow-up care for a fracture after an emergency room visit, our team can take over your care. Explore the other conditions we treat.
Foot and Ankle Fracture FAQs
How do I know if my foot is broken?
Signs of a fracture include pain that worsens with activity, swelling, bruising, tenderness, difficulty bearing weight, and changes in the shape of your foot.
What is a stress fracture?
A stress fracture is a tiny crack in a bone caused by repetitive force or overuse, common in runners and people who stand for long periods.
Can I walk on a fractured foot?
Some small fractures allow limited walking in a boot, but walking on an untreated fracture can make it worse. See a podiatrist for proper guidance.
How long does a foot fracture take to heal?
Most foot and ankle fractures take about six to eight weeks to heal, though severe fractures or surgical repairs may take longer.
Do all fractures require surgery?
No. Many fractures heal with immobilization in a boot, cast, or splint. Surgery is used for severe or displaced fractures.
Can you provide follow-up care after an ER visit?
Yes. We provide follow-up care for foot and ankle fractures diagnosed in the emergency room.
How can I prevent stress fractures?
Increase activity gradually, wear supportive shoes, replace worn athletic footwear, and consider custom orthotics if you have foot alignment issues.
Heal Your Fracture the Right Way
Get expert fracture care and follow-up. Call (703) 370-2313 or request an appointment online with Landmark Foot & Ankle Center in Alexandria, VA .
