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What is Ankle Dislocation?

Ankle dislocation is a condition that occurs when the bones of the lower leg called the fibula and tibia get separated from the talus or ankle bone. This can cause serious damage to the soft tissues surrounding the ankle including skin, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nervers. This may lead to a decline in strength and overall health of the foot or ankle if not treated in a timely and appropriate manner.

Causes of Ankle Dislocation

Some of the common causes of ankle dislocation include:

  • Motor vehicle accidents
  • Sports injury
  • Inward or outward rolling of the ankle
  • Severe falls
  • Sprain
  • Direct fall on the foot

Symptoms of Ankle Dislocation

The signs and symptoms of ankle dislocation include:

  • Severe pain
  • Instability
  • Ankle swelling and bruising
  • Stiffness and weakness
  • Limitations in the movement of the ankle

Diagnosis

Dr. Richardson will review your symptoms and medical history and perform a thorough physical examination to check for a range of motion and any damage to the ligaments, blood flow, and stability. The following diagnostic tests may be performed for further evaluation of the injured ankle.

  • X-rays: During this study, high electromagnetic energy beams are used to produce images of the bones.
  • CT scan: Special x-rays are used to produce images of any damage in the ankle.

Treatment for Ankle Dislocation

if you suspect there is a dislocated joint in the foot or ankle you should seek immediate medical attention by a trained professional familiar with these injuries at an urgent care or emergency department. Your dislocated foot and ankle joint may require reduction, or placing the bones back into proper alignment. Afterwards you may be instructed to keep the foot or ankle immobilized and remain non-weightbearing until evaluated by an orthopaedic foot and ankle specialist like Dr. Richardson. Keeping the leg elevated with the foot and ankle at the level of the heart is very important for pain control and in preparation of any surgery that may be indicated. Depending on your condition, Dr. Richardson will place the affected leg in a splint or therapeutic brace to keep it stable.

Other Foot & Ankle Conditions

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Locations & Directions

  • Banner Sports Medicine Scottsdale

    7400 N Dobson Rd., Suite 201, Scottsdale, AZ 85256

  • Banner Health Center plus at Arcadia

    4200 East Camelback Road, Suite 104, Phoenix, AZ 85018

  • Banner - University Orthopedic &
    Sports Medicine Institute

    755 East McDowell Road, Floor 2, Phoenix, AZ 85006

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