Dislocated Ankle

Symptoms of a Dislocated Ankle

• Sudden intense pain.  
• Loss of normal ankle use.
• Visible deformity - the bones in the leg (Tibia and Fibular) can appear out of place.
• Tenderness and swelling.
• Numbness in the foot would indicate nerve involvement.
• If the foot is cold or goes a blue/white colour then the blood supply is being restricted.

Dislocated ankles are uncommon, and where they exist they are usually associated with a fracture. This is due to the strength and complexity of the ankle, which makes it very difficult to dislocate the joint. When it does occur, it is usually due to an indirect trauma forcing the ankle to flex abnormally. The ankle can dislocate in any direction and in any of those directions it is extremely painful.

In order for the ankle joint to dislocate, all ligaments on one side must rupture. This most regularly happens on the outside of the ankle, where there are three ligaments. One or two of these are commonly injured during an ankle sprain.

Treatment of a Dislocated Ankle

• Apply the R.I.C.E principle until medical attention can be sought.
• An X-ray should be taken before attempting to reduce (pop back in) the ankle to find any associated fractures.
• After the X-ray has been analysed, a medical professional will relocate the ankle. This could be done with manipulation but could also necessitate surgery. Surgery is usually required as a fracture is usually present.
• Plates and screws will be used to restore the position and stability of the ankle.
• After treatment, the ankle may be placed in a cast for several weeks, or the patient may be required to use crutches. Either way, activities that place force or weight on the ankle should be avoided in this period.
• Eventually, physical therapy can get underway to restore the normal motion of the ankle.