Pott’s fracture is described as a fracture to one of the bony parts of the ankle known as the malleoli. Fractures are likely to occur on the lateral malleoli on the exterior or the medial malleoli on the inside. To learn to recognize and manage bone and muscle injuries including Pott’s fracture, register for first aid training with a credible provider near you.
Symptoms
When it comes to Pott’s fracture, it occurs in a similar way in which an ankle sprain occurs. It is often hard to distinguish between a Pott’s fracture and an ankle sprain during the early stages of the injury.
The symptom usually includes abrupt severe pain. The individual could not place any weight on the leg and there is tenderness at the area of fracture. In addition, there is significant bruising and swelling.
Overview on Pott’s fracture
A fracture on the medial, lateral or posterior malleoli on the exterior and interior of the ankle is called as Pott’s fracture. This is often caused in a similar way as an ankle sprain, thus it is difficult to distinguish them apart. A lateral ankle sprain is quite common and fractures to the lateral malleoli can also occur more frequently.
Primarily, proper palpation of the malleolus and the surrounding area can indicate that a fracture may or may not be present. If there is significant tenderness on the bone, it can point to a fracture. If the area right in front or beneath the bone is tender, it simply means that there is a ligament sprain.
It is important to note that an X-ray is the only way to check if a fracture is present. When an X-ray is taken early, it might not clearly reveal this due to the swelling and bleeding in the area. With this in mind, if a fracture is suspected, a second X-ray will be taken once the swelling has reduced.
Treatment for Pott’s fracture
Depending on the severity of the injury, it would require the fixation of the internal bones of the ankle which might have moved. Spiral fractures on the lateral malleolus or the posterior malleolus will not need fixation and managed without requiring surgical intervention with the use of crutches as well as mobilization exercises early on.
The lateral malleolar fractures that involve instability on the interior part of the ankle and hairline fractures on the medial malleolar might be unstable and typically managed with a plaster cast that is fitted below the knee for 6 weeks.
In minor fractures, they are usually managed with an ankle brace or walking boot. In most cases, a full strengthening and ankle rehabilitation program must be started which should also include proprioception training and wobble board exercises. As for fractures in which the bones have been displaced, it would require surgery to minimize them or position them back in the correct position.