Fibula fracture

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Fibula Fracture

A Fibula Fracture is a medical condition that involves a break in the fibula, one of the two bones located in the lower leg. The fibula is the smaller and less weight-bearing of the two bones, the other being the tibia. Fibula fractures can occur independently or in conjunction with a tibia fracture or ankle injury.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Fibula fractures are typically caused by direct trauma or force to the lower leg. This can occur in a variety of situations, such as during contact sports, falls, or motor vehicle accidents. Other causes can include stress fractures due to overuse or repetitive strain, or pathological fractures due to underlying conditions such as osteoporosis or bone cancer.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The primary symptom of a fibula fracture is pain in the lower leg. Other symptoms can include swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg. In severe cases, there may be visible deformity of the leg or ankle.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of a fibula fracture typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests. The most common imaging test used is an X-ray, which can clearly show the location and extent of the fracture. In some cases, a CT scan or MRI may be used to provide more detailed images.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for a fibula fracture depends on the severity and location of the fracture. Non-displaced fractures, where the bone pieces remain aligned, may be treated with conservative measures such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE protocol). This may be combined with immobilization using a cast or splint.

Displaced fractures, where the bone pieces have moved out of alignment, may require surgical intervention. This can involve the use of plates, screws, or rods to hold the bone pieces in the correct position while they heal.

Recovery[edit | edit source]

Recovery from a fibula fracture can take several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the fracture and the individual's overall health. Physical therapy may be recommended to help restore strength and mobility to the leg.

See Also[edit | edit source]



WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD