Broken ankles in children usually involve an injury from a sporting activity, fall, or other sudden movement or force that breaks, or fractures, any of the bones in the ankle: the two tall bones in the leg (tibia and fibula) and the foot (talus). Sometimes, fractures involve the soft cartilage (growth plate) at the end of the tibia and fibula. A child with a broken ankle may feel pain or warmth in the ankle, or may have a hard time moving their ankle. In some cases, a visible deformity may be visible. A podiatrist can examine and perform testing to ascertain the location, severity, and pattern of the fracture to determine the best course of treatment to ensure correct healing.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Castillo of Bronx Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
- Make sure their shoes fit properly
- Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
- Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
- Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
- Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
- Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
- Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
- Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.