Lower leg fracture (tibia, fibula)
About Lower leg fracture (tibia, fibula)
The lower leg is the area of the body between the knee and the ankle. The lower leg is made up of two bones called the tibia and fibula. The tibia is a very strong bone located along the inside of the lower leg while the fibula is a much thinner bone and is on the outside. Fractures of the lower leg are the most common long bone fractures. Treatment depends on the location, severity of the injury and age of the patient. The fracture can damage adjacent nerves and blood vessels.Symptoms
Pain, lower leg deformity, inability to move leg, leg swelling, numbness, tenderness.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical will be performed. The diagnosis is usually confirmed with a x-ray.Common tests: X-ray.
OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Depends on the location of the injury, severity of the fracture and the age of the patient but may include nonoperative care with immobilization with splinting/casting and/or surgery which may be referred to a closed reduction or an open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of the injured bones. Hardware is applied in surgery to keep the bones aligned until the body heals the fracture.Medical specialties
Orthopedic Surgery · Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery · Orthopedic Trauma Surgery
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Lower leg fracture (tibia, fibula).