Out of Place, In Order: Ankle Dislocations, From Causes to Complications

You’ve just injured your ankle, but you’re not sure if you’ve broken or sprained it. But many people don’t know that there is a third option, a dislocation, which can resemble its counterparts’ symptoms, from the pain and swelling to the visible deformity and bruising.

And while a dislocation doesn’t involve breaks or ligament damage, its name is quite literal:   the ankle joint is forced out of its normal position. This is a serious injury, and we at My Chicago Foot Expert are here to tell you all about it.

Causes of Ankle Dislocations

Whether it be a sudden, forceful twist or impact or severe trauma resulting from falls, injuries, or accidents, ankle dislocations are caused by various high-energy events.

Individuals who participate in sports that involve sudden stops, changes in direction, or jumping, such as basketball, soccer, and football, are at a higher risk of ankle dislocations.

Additionally, individuals with certain medical conditions, like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which affects connective tissues, may have increased joint instability, including in the ankles. Older adults, due to age-related changes in bone and joint health, are also at a higher risk of experiencing ankle dislocations.

Treatment of Ankle Dislocation

Treatment for an ankle dislocation typically involves manually manipulating the bones back into their proper alignment, followed by immobilization in a cast or splint to promote healing.

Physical therapy is the gold standard for restoring range of motion, strength, and function to the ankle joint. However, in some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged ligaments or tendons or to stabilize the joint.

Complications of Ankle Dislocation

If not treated promptly and appropriately, ankle dislocations can beget several complications:

• Chronic ankle instability: This condition can lead to recurrent ankle sprains and chronic pain.
• Arthritis: Damage to the joint surfaces can lead to the development of arthritis.
• Nerve damage: In severe cases, nerve damage can occur, leading to uncomfortable sensations or weakness in the foot.
• Infection: Although unlikely, open fractures or wounds associated with an ankle dislocation can increase the risk of infection.

Reach out to the tenured staff at My Chicago Foot Expert by calling (773) 561-8100 or by clicking here to schedule an appointment with Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our modern, comfortable Ravenswood office today.