An ankle dislocation is a serious injury that can leave you unable to walk or move your foot, causing significant pain and concern about your next steps. Getting the right treatment is crucial whether your injury occurred during a sports activity, car accident, or fall. At Utah Orthopaedics in Ogden, UT, our highly experienced specialists are here to help.
Dr. Kade Huntsman, a leader in complex orthopedic surgeries and former Chief of Surgery at St. Mark’s Hospital, brings over two decades of expertise to our practice. Dr. Sean Davis, a fellowship-trained sports medicine surgeon, is skilled in treating athletic injuries, including ankle dislocations. Dr. Jeffrey Rocco, who performed the first ankle replacement in Weber County, specializes in foot and ankle reconstruction. Together, our team provides top-tier, personalized care to help you recover quickly and confidently regain your mobility.
What is an Ankle Dislocation?
An ankle dislocation happens when the bones in the ankle joint are displaced from their normal alignment. This typically results from a traumatic event, such as a fall, direct impact, or by twisting the ankle beyond its natural range of motion. The ligaments that support the ankle joint are usually damaged during a dislocation, and there is often a risk of bone fractures.
Unlike a sprain, where ligaments are stretched or torn, a dislocated ankle involves a complete misalignment of the bones. This makes it a much more severe injury, requiring immediate medical attention to prevent long-term complications like chronic instability or arthritis.
Common Symptoms and When to Seek Help
If you’ve dislocated your ankle, the symptoms are often hard to ignore. These typically include:
- Severe pain, especially when trying to move or bear weight on the foot.
- A visible deformity where the ankle appears misaligned.
- Significant swelling and bruising around the ankle.
- An inability to move your foot or ankle.
In some cases, numbness or a tingling sensation may occur if nerves are compressed during the dislocation.
Because an ankle dislocation is a medical emergency, seeking immediate care is critical. Delaying treatment can result in more drastic damage to the ankle’s bones, ligaments, and blood vessels, potentially complicating recovery. Utah Orthopaedics in Ogden is here to provide timely and expert care when you need it most.
Treatment Options for Ankle Dislocation
When you arrive at Utah Orthopaedics, we’ll begin with a thorough evaluation, often using X-rays or an MRI to assess the full extent of the injury. The primary goal of treatment is to reposition the bones (a procedure called reduction) and stabilize the ankle to allow for healing.
Nonsurgical Treatment
In some cases, if the dislocation is straightforward and no fractures are present, the bones can be realigned manually, and the ankle will be immobilized with a cast or brace. This allows the ligaments and bones to heal naturally over time.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery may be required if the dislocation is severe or if there are accompanying fractures. During the procedure, we’ll not only realign the bones but may also repair torn ligaments or place hardware (such as screws or plates) to stabilize the joint. This ensures proper healing and minimizes the risk of future instability.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
The recovery time for an ankle dislocation depends on the severity of the injury and whether surgical intervention was required. Usually, the initial recovery phase involves immobilizing the ankle in a cast or brace for several weeks. You’ll likely need crutches to avoid putting weight on the injured foot during this time.
Once the bones and ligaments have healed, physical therapy is essential to the recovery process. At Utah Orthopaedics, we work closely with you to develop a rehabilitation program designed to:
- Restore strength and flexibility to the ankle.
- Improve balance and stability.
- Reduce the risk of re-injury.
Recovery times can range from several weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the injury. Most patients can anticipate returning to their regular activities within three to six months, though more severe dislocations may require additional time for recovery. Our team will support you throughout each phase of the healing process, working to ensure you fully restore function and strength in your ankle.
Why Choose Utah Orthopaedics for Ankle Dislocation Treatment?
At Utah Orthopaedics, we offer expert care for ankle dislocations, ensuring personalized treatment from a highly skilled team of specialists. Dr. Kade Huntsman, a renowned orthopedic surgeon, leads the clinic with extensive experience in complex surgeries. Dr. Sean Davis, a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon, specializes in sports medicine and is highly skilled in treating athletic injuries, including ankle dislocations. Dr. Jeffrey Rocco, a board-certified foot and ankle specialist, provides cutting-edge care, including non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments for ankle dislocations and injuries.
Our experienced team also includes physical therapists and rehabilitation experts who help guide your recovery from an ankle dislocation. Whether your treatment involves surgery or conservative care, we ensure a comprehensive approach to restoring your mobility and preventing future complications. Trust Utah Orthopaedics to provide the highest care and support for your ankle dislocation. Schedule a consultation today to begin your recovery journey.
Start Your Recovery from Ankle Dislocation in Ogden, UT
Don’t let an ankle dislocation hold you back. If you’ve suffered an ankle dislocation or another ankle injury, contact Utah Orthopaedics in Ogden, UT, today to schedule a consultation. Our expert team is here to provide the care you need for a swift recovery and to help you get back to your normal activities. Timely treatment is essential for the best possible outcome, so don’t wait—call us now at 801-917-8000 to get started.
