Services | Orthopedics and Pain Medicine Physician located in Edison, Clifton, Hazlet, Jersey City and West Orange, NJ | Garden State Pain & Orthopedics

Garden State Pain and Orthopedics offers comprehensive treatment for foot and ankle injuries. The treatment of foot and ankle fractures depends on the type and severity of the fracture. Treatment may vary from conservative (non-surgical) approaches to surgical intervention. At Garden State Pain and Orthopedics we focus on giving patients options that best suit their specific injury. Here is an overview of how foot and ankle fractures are typically treated at our practice:

Initial Assessment and Immobilization:

When a fracture is suspected, the first step is to immobilize the affected area to prevent further injury. This is usually done using some type of brace or boot. Immobilization helps reduce pain and prevents movement that could cause further damage.

Medical Evaluation:

Garden State Pain and Orthopedics’ Foot and Ankle Specialist, Dr Scott Hanauer, will conduct a thorough evaluation that includes physical examination and imaging. Our offices are equipped with x-ray and ultrasound, and we may send you to an imaging center to get an MRI to determine the exact location and severity of the fracture.

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatment:

Many foot and ankle fractures can be successfully treated without surgery. This typically involves:

• Immobilization with a boot or a brace
• Pain management with medications
• RICE Therapy (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation to reduce swelling and promote healing)
• Weight-bearing restrictions to allow the fracture to heal

In some cases, Garden State Pain and Orthopedics also uses innovative technology such as Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP) to expedite recovery. Read more about PRP-Therapy here.

Surgical Treatment:

Our specialists will lay out the treatment options available to you. In cases where severe fractures require surgical intervention, or conservative treatment fails, there are few different surgical options include:

• Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): The surgeon repositions the broken bones and uses hardware such as screws, plates, or rods to stabilize the fracture.
• External Fixation: In some complex fractures, an external frame may be used to stabilize the bones from outside the body.
• Closed Reduction: The surgeon manipulates the bones back into alignment without making a large incision.

Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy:

After the initial treatment, rehabilitation and physical therapy are essential to restore strength, mobility, and function to your foot. This includes exercises, stretching, and functional activities to help patients regain their normal range of motion. 

Follow-Up Care:

Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider are crucial to monitor the healing progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

Weight-Bearing Progression:

The timing for returning to weight-bearing activities will depend on the type and location of the fracture. Initially, partial or non-weight bearing may be recommended to protect the healing bones.

Long-Term Care:

Some fractures may require long-term monitoring to ensure there are no complications, such as arthritis or joint instability. It's essential to attend your follow up appointment with Dr. Hanauer to ensure the best possible outcome. Recovery times can vary widely depending on the specific fracture, but with proper care and rehabilitation, many people can regain full function and return to their normal activities.

To learn more about our foot and ankle treatments visit our services page, or select “Book Now” to Schedule an appointment with Dr. Scott Hanauer. 

Common Foot and Ankle Questions

• What is a fracture, and how is it different from a sprain or strain?
• A fracture is a broken bone in your foot, while a sprain or strain is an injury to a ligament in your foot or ankle. 

• What type of fracture do I have?
• This question can be answered upon diagnosis with x-ray and mri. Dr. Hanauer will explain your fracture during your appointment. 

• Do I need surgery for my fracture?
• Depending on the severity of the fracture, you may need surgery. Treatment options are always discussed and Foot and Ankle Specialist Dr. Scott Hanauer will always suggest what he thinks is best for your specific condition. 
• How long will it take for my fracture to heal?
• The time it takes to heal depends on the type of fracture. Upon diagnosis we can give you an estimated timeline. 
• Minor Fractures (e.g., toe fractures or small bone fractures): These fractures often heal within 4-6 weeks. In many cases, patients can resume normal activities relatively quickly.
• Stress Fractures: Stress fractures are hairline cracks in bones, often caused by overuse or repetitive stress. Recovery time can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity and location of the stress fracture. Rest and gradual return to activity are crucial for healing.
• Ankle Fractures: Recovery time for ankle fractures can vary but usually ranges from 6 to 12 weeks. It may take longer for more complex fractures or if surgical intervention is required.
• Metatarsal (midfoot) and Lisfranc Fractures: Healing time for fractures in the midfoot can take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks or longer, depending on the specific injury and treatment.
• Tibia and Fibula Fractures: Fractures of the tibia (shinbone) and fibula (calf bone) can take several months to heal fully, often around 3 to 6 months. Surgical treatment may extend the recovery time.
• Calcaneus (Heel Bone) Fractures: Recovery from calcaneus fractures can be lengthy, typically ranging from 3 to 6 months or more. Complex fractures may require even more extended recovery periods.

• Will I need physical therapy?
• Yes, all of our patients with foot or ankle fractures need to see physical therapy to regain strength and mobility in their foot.

• Can I return to sports or physical activities after my fracture has healed?
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• Yes, you will be able to return to sports after recovery. However it is important to follow the specific timeline Dr. Hanauer provides to ensure the best possible recovery and decrease the risk of reinjury.