Fibula shaft fracture

What is a fibula fracture?

The fibula bone is the outside bone of your lower leg. Whilst the fibula does not carry much of your body weight, it is an essential site of attachment for ligaments in both your knee and ankle joint.

Fibula fractures commonly occur as part of an ankle injury. These injuries occur in a similar manner to a badly sprained ankle, with most injuries treated in the same way as sprains.

The treatment for this type of fracture is a walking boot, which you will need to wear for six weeks.

Crutches can be given for support if needed, but it is important that weight is put through the boot in order to strengthen the ligaments.

Swelling and bruising at the fracture site is normal. Simple, over the counter pain killers and applying ice to the area will help to reduce swelling and pain. Ice should be applied, wrapped in a tea towel, for 20 minutes three to four times a day.

You should:

• Take simple over the counter pain killers as needed to keep pain levels under control.
• Use ice and elevation to bring swelling down.
• Wear the walking boot for the time frame recommended. The boot can be removed at night, when you are resting and for hygiene.
• Weight bear as the pain allows in the walking boot.
• Gently start to move the ankle as pain allows to prevent stiffness.

You should not:

• Return to high intensity or contact sports for at least six weeks unless recommended by the doctor.
• Miss your appointment with the specialist if one has been requested.

Please remember:

Please contact your GP if your condition is not improving, or if your pain relief is not adequate.

If your condition is worsening please contact the Multi professional fracture clinic, call 01223 348299 or call 01223 257095.

For more information please visit Fracture Info (opens in a new tab)