Appalachian Hiker breaks Ankle on Trail

Appalachian Hiker breaks Ankle on Trail

foot%20and%20ankle%20injuries.bmpSixty-nine-year-old Charles Smith was descending Bemis Mountain on the Appalachian Trail when he fell and broke his ankle. Smith used a global satellite communication and tracking device to help rescuers find him after falling. Luckily for him, Smith’s location was close to the end of the trail so rescuers were able to reach him quickly. Smith suffered hairline fractures in his lower leg and ankle. He was initially taken to Rumford Hospital before being taken to Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston for treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Dr. Alan Discont, D.P.M. of Family Foot and Ankle Care. Dr. Discont will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

  • Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
  • Swelling around the area
  • Bruising of the area
  • Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please contact our office in Chandler, AZ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about broken ankles.