What causes swelling in a fractured ankle?

Swelling after an ankle fracture is caused by local tissue damage, vascular rupture, and inflammatory response after the fracture. Treatment includes fixation, cold compress, medication, and rehabilitation training.

1. Local tissue damage after fracture

When an ankle is fractured, the broken bone directly damages the surrounding soft tissues, including muscles, ligaments, and blood vessels. This damage can cause local bleeding and tissue fluid infiltration, resulting in swelling. After the fracture, the body initiates repair mechanisms, and inflammatory cells gather at the site of injury, further aggravating the swelling.

2. Ruptured blood vessels and obstructed blood circulation

When a bone is fractured, blood vessels may rupture due to external force, causing blood to leak into surrounding tissues and form a hematoma. At the same time, blood circulation at the fracture site may be blocked, leading to local congestion and edema. This swelling usually reaches its peak within 24-48 hours after the fracture.

3. Inflammatory response

After a fracture, the body releases inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins and histamine, which increase vascular permeability, allowing more fluid to seep into the interstitial space, leading to swelling. The inflammatory response is the body's natural process for repairing damage, but excessive swelling may impair healing.

Treatment

1. Fixed

Immobilizing the ankle immediately after a fracture can help prevent further damage. Immobilizing the fracture with a splint, cast, or brace can help reduce pain and swelling and promote healing.

2. Cold compress

Cold compresses can effectively reduce swelling and pain within 24-48 hours after a fracture. Apply cold compresses for 15-20 minutes each time, with an interval of 1-2 hours, and avoid direct contact with the skin to prevent frostbite.

3. Drug treatment

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen can reduce pain and inflammation. Your doctor may prescribe medications to help your fracture heal, such as calcium and vitamin D. If you have severe swelling, you may need to take a diuretic to reduce edema.

4. Rehabilitation training

After the fracture heals, rehabilitation training is gradually performed to restore ankle function. Passive activities such as toe flexion and extension can be performed in the early stage; active activities such as ankle flexion and extension and rotation training are added in the later stage. Physical therapists can develop personalized rehabilitation plans.

Swelling of an ankle fracture is a common symptom after a fracture. Timely fixation, cold compresses and medication can effectively relieve swelling. Rehabilitation training can help restore ankle function and avoid long-term complications. If swelling continues to worsen or is accompanied by severe pain, seek medical attention immediately.