Fracture of the fibula: Symptoms, treatment and rehabilitation

A fibula fracture can significantly limit mobility and requires appropriate treatment and rehabilitation. Because of the stabilizing function played by the fibula of the leg, damage to it affects the function of the entire limb. Depending on the severity of the fracture and the location of the injury, therapy can range from conservative treatment to surgical intervention. Prompt recognition of symptoms, selection of the appropriate treatment method, and properly conducted rehabilitation after a fibula fracture that allows full recovery are crucial. 

What is the fibula and how does it fracture?

The fibula of the leg is a thin and long bone that runs parallel to the tibia. Although it does not play the main supporting role, Is essential for the stability of the ankle and knee joint. Injuries most often occur around the fibula of the ankle, where it is exposed to sprains, strains and fractures as a result of falls or impacts. Fracture of the fibula usually occurs as a result:

• Direct trauma (e.g., impact, fall from height);
• ankle sprains;
• Overloads resulting from intense physical activity;
• osteoporosis or other conditions that weaken bone structure.

Fracture of the fibula - symptoms

The symptoms of a fibula fracture depend on the location and type of injury. Most commonly observed are:

• severe pain In the area of the fracture, aggravating with movement;
• swelling and bruising, especially around the fibula of the ankle;
• mobility difficulties Or a complete inability to load the limb;
• visible deformation In the case of a fracture with displacement.

In the case of a fracture near the fibula of the foot, pain may radiate toward the metatarsals, making it difficult to move the toes.

Treatment of fibula fracture - operative and conservative

Selection of treatment method depends on the type of fracture. In some cases, it is possible to treat a fibula fracture without a cast, but this is mainly true for fractures without displacement.

Fibula - fracture versus conservative treatment

For stable injuries, a fibula fracture without displacement can be treated without the need for surgical intervention. Conservative treatment allows for gradual bone healing with minimal risk of complications and includes the following methods: 

• Immobilization of the limb in a cast or special orthosis;
• Putting weight on the leg and using crutches;
• Pain and anti-inflammatory therapy.

It is also important to Controlling the healing process with imaging studies, such as X-rays or CT scans, to ensure that the bone fragments are fusing properly. In the case of delayed fusion, the doctor may recommend additional methods to promote regeneration, such as ultrasound therapy.

Fibula - fracture versus surgical treatment

Surgical intervention may be required for complex fractures, particularly in the fibula of the ankle. The treatment includes fusion of fractures with plates, screws or intramedullary nails, followed by immobilization and gradual introduction of rehabilitation. Surgery is advisable especially when there is a multifracture fracture, ankle joint damage or severe displacement of bony fragments, which can disrupt the biomechanics of the limb. After surgery, appropriate physiotherapy is crucial to restore full function to the leg and avoid complications such as muscle contractures or reduced joint mobility. 

Walking after a fibula fracture - when can you put weight on the leg?

Walking after a fibula fracture should be done gradually, according to the recommendations of the doctor and physiotherapist. It is important to gradually increase the load on the limb to avoid overloading the ankle joint and knee. In most cases full loading of the leg is possible after about 6-8 weeks, but this time depends on the severity of the fracture and the progress of rehabilitation. In the initial phase, orthopedic crutches are used, followed by strengthening exercises to restore stability and muscle strength.

In the rehabilitation process, it is important to monitor any pain and swelling that may indicate a return to activity too soon. Appropriate exercises, such as proprioception and stabilization training, help rebuild motor coordination and reduce the risk of re-injury. In addition, it is worth implementing physical therapy, such as cryotherapy or electrostimulation, to speed up tissue regeneration and reduce inflammation at the fracture site. 

Rehabilitation after fibula fracture - how to get back to fitness?

Rehabilitation after a fibula fracture is crucial to regaining full function of the limb. It includes:

• exercises to improve range of motion in the ankle and knee joint;
• shin muscle strengthening;
• Manual therapy and massage to improve circulation;
• Equilibrium and proprioception exercises to aid leg stability.

If the fracture also involved the tibia, it will be necessary to rehabilitation after tibia and fibula fracture, which includes more intensive strengthening therapy. On the other hand, those preparing for surgery can benefit from prophylactic rehabilitation, which strengthens the musculoskeletal system, improves fitness and minimizes the risk of postoperative complications. Prehabilitation prepares the body for the upcoming operation or medical procedure, reducing recovery time and improving patient outcomes. 

Hand fibula fracture - is it possible?

Although The fibula of the hand does not exist (is part of the lower limb), sometimes the term is erroneously used to describe fractures in the upper limb, such as the forearm. In the case of such injuries, it is worth reading the article on fractures of the humerus, which discusses diagnosis and treatment options.

Where to look for support in rehabilitation after fractures?

The recovery process requires appropriate therapy under the guidance of specialists. It is worth using the services of a professional rehabilitation center, where experienced therapists select an individual exercise and physiotherapy plan, tailored to the type and degree of injury. Comprehensive rehabilitation care includes both manual techniques and modern therapies to promote tissue regeneration and restore full function of the limb. In the case of patients whose fracture has caused a orthopedic conditions, it is important to implement therapy to promote not only bone healing, but also improving the overall condition of the musculoskeletal system. Professional physical rehabilitation will maximize recovery time. 

Summary

A fibula fracture is a serious injury that requires appropriate treatment and rehabilitation. Symptoms such as pain, swelling and difficulty moving should prompt immediate consultation with a doctor. Treatment of a fibula fracture without a cast is possible, but only in selected cases. Rehabilitation after a fibula fracture plays a key role in recovery, which is Helps avoid complications and regain full mobility. 

In order to ensure that the recovery process goes well, it is advisable to enlist the help of experienced specialists. At Neuroport, we offer comprehensive therapy tailored to the individual patient's needs.