Management of ankle fractures

Ankle fractures are a common injury across all age groups. Management may be operative or nonoperative, depending on the severity of the injury and the patient's overall health and functional status. Although imaging defines the nature of the fracture, a careful history and physical also helps determine the patient's plan of care. Initial management is focused on adequate alignment and safe immobilization of the injury. Definitive management must provide anatomic alignment of the joint as well as consideration of the surrounding soft tissues. Rehabilitation after either operative or nonoperative treatment aims at restoring range of motion, strength, proprioception, and function.