What is a Talus Fracture?
The talus (or ankle) bone connects the back of the foot with the leg, joining with the tibia and fibula to form the ankle joint, and allowing for motion within the ankle. Fracturing the talus is thus equal to breaking the ankle bone, and typically involves severe ankle pain, bruising, and swelling, with an inability to walk.
Causes
Severe talus fractures are most commonly caused by high-impact injuries from automobile accidents or falls from ladders. The smaller fractures may also occur from accidents that involve twisting one’s ankle.
Treatment
Physicians can diagnose a talus fracture simply by examining the foot and ankle for evidence of bruising and swelling. However, they can also use X-rays and CT scans to better understand the location of any bone fragments, the extent of any joint damage, and additional information concerning the fracture. It may also make sense for anyone with a talus fracture to also be examined for additional injuries to the back, neck, etc.
Unfortunately, these types of injuries can be slow to heal because the talus is mostly covered with cartilage instead of muscular attachments. Initially treating with a cast is sometimes an option, especially if any broken bones remained close together and joint surfaces remained aligned. Surgery is necessary for most patients with a talus fracture in order to reshape and restore the talus. A procedure called open reduction and internal fixation is typically performed if the bone is broken into several large pieces. A cut is made on the outside of the foot and screws and/or a metal plate is used to hold the bones together until they can heal.
Rehabilitation and Resuming Activities
Staying completely off the foot is typically necessary for at least eight to 12 weeks, while the foot will likely remain swollen for several months after the procedure. After this, physical therapy can help restore movement and motion, ultimately allowing you to return to normal function. Due to the severity of the injury and the need to stay off the foot in order to allow it to heal, most people are not able to return to work for at least two weeks (those with more active jobs may need to stay on leave for six months to one year).
Complications
As talus fractures are fairly severe injuries, other factors can complicate the condition. Patients with poor circulation, such as diabetics or smokers, are at risk for infections early on when the foot and ankle are swollen. In addition, if the blood supply is damaged, it can cause the bone to decay, creating a deformity and arthritis (known as “avascular necrosis”) which requires additional surgery.
Injury Advocates
If you have suffered from a talus fracture as the result of a car accident or other event that was not your fault, you may be able to recover compensation to help with medical bills, any disabilities, physical therapy costs, and lost wages as a result of the injury. The Law Offices of Gerald J. Noonan represent injury victims and have extensive experience handling leg and foot injury cases. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Did you suffer a talus fracture from an accident? Our Boston area car accident and personal injury claims attorneys will work hard to get you the compensation you deserve. Free consultation. No-obligation. No fee if no recovery.
If you or a loved one has experienced a talus fracture because of someone else’s negligence and would like to discuss your legal options, contact an experienced Boston injury lawyer today for a free consultation. The Law Offices of Gerald J. Noonan has a proven track record with over 35 years of legal experience representing victims of chest injuries in southeastern Massachusetts.
For a free, no-obligation case review and consultation call our law firm today at (508) 588-0422 and you will have taken your first step towards getting fair compensation for your injuries or for the loss of a loved one. You can also click here to use our Free Case Evaluation Form.
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