Broken Fibula?!


Question:

Broken Fibula?

Hi,

I'm 28 years of age and slipped and broke my fibula on the 2nd day of a holiday abroad. The break is on my left leg, about 6 inches below my knee and on the back by the calf.

The Dr in Greece semi-plastered this (so that my leg would not swell on the flight back home) and advised me not to walk on it. However, 9 Days later the Dr here in UK, has removed the plaster cast and advised me to start walking on my leg, to increase movement.

I am still in a lot of pain and my leg is still swollen and I am concerned whether I have been given correct advice?

Is it normal to start walking so soon?

How long will the break take to heal?

Should I have been given an air cast boot?

Are there any known complications?

How can a break of the fibula occur from a slip/fall?

Which Dr is right? - could I have walked on this from Day 1, or has 9 Days in a plaster helped?

Would appreciate advice from anyone who can help!

Thanks!

Additional Details

1 month ago
Yes I did have an x-ray again yesterday and then the Dr decided not to re-plaster, but instead I should start walking on it??


Answers:

To start the fibula bears very little weight so depending on the type of break it is typical for one to be able and allowed to put full weight down. I am a little surprised that you are not in a walking boot (looks like a moon boot that inflates) to immobilize your ankle. It is important to minimize the amount of motion at the ankle because the distal (bottom) end of the fibula articulates (interacts) with the talus bone of your foot. Moving your ankle is going to place stress on your fibula not only because of the articulation but because some of the muscles that move your foot attach to the fibula. I would suggest maybe getting a second opinion.




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