Talus Fracture Treatment in Buffalo Grove, IL
Talus Fractures
The talus is a bone that is an important part of the ankle joint. It helps to transfer weight and pressure forces across the ankle joint. It is located between the tibia and fibula of the lower leg and the calcaneus or heel bone. The tibia and fibula are situated on top and around the sides of the talus and thus form the ankle joint. At the point where the talus meets the calcaneus, it forms the subtalar joint. This joint is essential for individuals walking on uneven ground.
If you’ve fractured your talus, our board-certified foot and ankle doctors are here to help you find the relief you deserve:
Don't let a talus fracture keep you from getting back on your feet. Our team is here to assess your injury and create a personalized treatment plan to help you heal. Request an appointment today and take the first step toward recovery.
What is a Talus Fracture? How and Why It Happens
A talus fracture is a break in the talus bone, one of the key bones in the ankle joint that connects the leg to the foot. This bone is crucial for ankle movement and helps transfer weight and pressure across the ankle joint.
Talus fractures are typically caused by high-impact injuries, such as:
- Car accidents: Sudden, forceful impact is a common cause.
- Falls from a significant height: Landing hard on your feet can lead to a fracture.
- Severe ankle twists: Sports injuries, especially in activities like snowboarding, can result in a talus fracture.
Because the talus has a limited blood supply, these fractures can be difficult to heal and may lead to complications like avascular necrosis (bone death) or arthritis.
Other risk factors include:
- Osteoporosis: Weakened bones are more susceptible to fractures from less severe impacts.
- High-risk sports or occupations: Participating in activities with a high potential for falls or trauma increases your risk.
- Previous ankle injuries: A history of ankle instability or prior fractures can make the joint more vulnerable.
Foot & Ankle Specialists at BOS
Meet the podiatric foot and ankle surgeons who diagnose and treat talus fractures, including surgical fixation for patients across the Barrington Orthopedic Specialists network.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes a Fracture of the Talus?+
Most talus fractures are the result of trauma, such as automobile accidents or falls.
What Are the Symptoms of a Fracture of the Talus?+
The most common symptoms of talus fractures include:
- Swelling around the ankle joint
- Pain with movement of the ankle
- Bruising of the skin
- Inability to place weight on the joint
What Are the Treatment Options for a Fracture of the Talus?+
Fractures of the talus may require surgery to realign the bone and minimize complications. The surgeon uses metal screws to stabilize the bone and may remove small fragments or use bone grafts to restore the joint’s shape.
After surgery:
- A cast is applied for approximately 6 to 8 weeks.
- Weight-bearing is typically restricted for about 2 months.
- X-rays are taken to monitor the bone's healing.
- Physical therapy is recommended to restore range of motion, strength, and function.
Even with proper healing, arthritis may develop if the cartilage covering the talus is damaged. This can result in pain and stiffness due to bone-on-bone friction. Treatment options for arthritis include:
- Activity modifications
- Ankle braces
- Ankle or subtalar joint fusion
- Ankle joint replacement