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First Aid & Emergencies

Call 911 NOW if you are having:

  • Chest Pain
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Severe Bleeding
  • Sudden Weakness or Numbness
  • A Medical Emergency
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Ankle Fracture Treatment

1. Leave Protruding Bone Alone

  • If a bone has broken through the skin, don't push it back into place. Cover the area with a clean bandage.

 

2. Stop Bleeding

  • Apply steady, direct pressure with a cloth for 15 minutes and elevate the wound. If blood soaks through, apply another cloth over the first.

 

3. Control Swelling

  • Remove ankle bracelets or toe rings.

Do RICE therapy:

  • Rest ankle by having the person stay off of it. Use crutches if necessary.
  • Ice area.
  • Compress by wrapping ankle lightly (not tightly) with an "ace" bandage or elastic ankle brace.
  • Elevateankle above heart level.

 

4. Manage Pain and Inflammation

  • Give an over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or aspirin. Do NOT give aspirin to anyone under the age of 18.

 

5. See a Doctor

6. Follow Up

  • The doctor will examine and X-ray the ankle, leg, and foot. The doctor also may do a CT or CAT scan, MRI, or stress test to determine if surgery is needed.
  • If needed, the doctor will set the broken bone back in place and immobilize the ankle with a splint, cast, or other device.

 

WebMD Medical Reference

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Reviewed by Varnada Karriem-Norwood, MD on November 22, 2011
© 2011 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

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