Some fractures can be extremely complicated and require specialized care for a successful recovery. In this sense, going to specialized centers is essential to guarantee the best treatment. In particular, fractures of the tibia and fibula stand out as one of the most common and significant in the trauma field.
What is a tibia and fibula fracture?
A fracture of the tibia and fibula is a bone injury that affects both long bones of the leg., the tibia and the fibula. This injury can range in severity from simple fractures to more complex fractures involving multiple bone fragments.
These fractures are usually the resulting from blunt trauma, such as falls, car accidents, or sports injuries high energy. Proper diagnosis and treatment of a tibia and fibula fracture are critical to achieving a successful recovery and preventing potential complications.
How to know if you have a tibia and fibula fracture
Identifying a tibia and fibula fracture is essential to ensure effective treatment and proper recovery. If you experience any of the following symptoms after an accident or trauma to the leg area, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.
Some Signs and symptoms indicating a fracture of the tibia and fibula are:
- Severe pain in the affected leg: It is common to experience sharp, persistent pain, especially when trying to move your leg or put weight on it.
- Swelling and bruising: The area around the fracture may have swelling and bluish or purple discolorations on the skin.
- Visible deformity: In some cases, the fracture can cause an obvious deformity in the leg, such as abnormal swelling or a change in the shape of the limb.
- Difficulty walking or moving your leg: Pain and discomfort can limit mobility and make it difficult to perform normal movements.
- Sensitivity or pain to touch: The fracture area may be tender to the touch and cause discomfort or pain when you press on it.
- Crackling or rubbing noise: Sometimes a crackling sound can be heard when trying to move the affected leg, indicating the presence of fractured bone fragments.
Diagnosis of tibia and fibula fracture
During the diagnostic process, different imaging and clinical evaluation methods are used to confirm the presence of the fracture and determine its severity. An accurate diagnosis allows you to start timely and personalized treatment, thus optimizing results and minimizing the risk of complications.
Some of the methods used to diagnose a fracture of the tibia and fibula are:
- Physical exam: The doctor may perform a physical examination of the affected leg to evaluate for pain, swelling, deformity, or tenderness.
- X-rays: X-rays are a fundamental tool in the diagnosis of fractures. Images of the leg can be taken from different angles to visualize any bone fractures or injuries.
- Computed tomography (CT): In complex cases or to evaluate specific injuries, a CT scan may be performed to obtain more detailed images of the fracture and its extent.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): MRI may be useful in evaluating soft tissue injuries associated with the fracture, such as damage to ligaments or surrounding muscle tissues.
- Ultrasound: Although less commonly used, ultrasound can be useful in the diagnosis of fractures in children and in the evaluation of certain soft tissue injuries.
Tibia and fibula fracture treatment
The treatment of a tibia and fibula fracture is a multidisciplinary process that requires specialized attention and personalized care to achieve optimal recovery for the patient. He Therapeutic approach for tibia and fibula fracture It depends on multiple factors, such as the location and severity of the injury, the age and general health of the patient.
The Most common treatment options for a tibia fracture and fibula include:
- Immobilization: In cases of nondisplaced or minimally displaced fractures, a splint, cast, or orthopedic boot may be used to keep the leg immobilized while the fracture heals.
- Closed reduction: In some displaced fractures, the doctor can carefully manipulate the bone fragments to realign them without surgery. This is done under anesthesia and radiographic control.
- Internal fixation surgery: In more severe or displaced fractures, surgery may be necessary to fix the bone fragments in place with metal plates, screws, or pins.
- External fixation surgery: In cases of open fractures or fractures with severe injuries to the surrounding soft tissues, an external fixation device may be used to stabilize the fracture from outside the body.
- Rehabilitation: Regardless of the treatment method used, rehabilitation is essential for a complete recovery. This may include strengthening exercises, physical therapy, and measures to improve mobility and function of the affected leg.
How long does a tibia and fibula fracture take to heal?
The length of the healing process for a tibia and fibula fracture varies depending on several factors, including the severity of the injury, the type of treatment received, the age and general health of the patient. In general, tibia and fibula fractures can take 3 to 6 months to fully heal.
It is essential to follow the doctor's instructions and participate in rehabilitation programs to optimize the healing process and minimize complications long-term.
Surgery for fracture of tibia and fibula
The surgery to treat a fracture of the tibia and fibula It may be necessary in cases of more severe or displaced injuries, as well as in fractures that do not heal adequately with conservative treatment methods.
Currently, there is the minimally invasive surgery technique, which offers numerous benefits compared to traditional approaches. This technique uses smaller, less invasive incisions, which can reduce the risk of surgical complications, speed recovery time, and improve cosmetic results.
It is important to talk to your doctor about the treatment options available and the risks and benefits associated with surgery, to make an informed and personalized decision about the course of action most suitable for each patient.
The importance of specialized care for the treatment of fractures
Specialized care in the treatment of tibia and fibula fractures plays a crucial role in the recovery process and in preventing possible complications. To the receive medical care from professionals specialized in traumatology, patients can benefit from:
- Accurate diagnosis: Trauma specialists are experienced in identifying and evaluating bone fractures, allowing for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment planning from the outset.
- Personalized treatment: Each fracture is unique and requires a personalized treatment approach. Trauma specialists can design a treatment plan tailored to each patient's specific needs.
- Advanced techniques: Trauma professionals are familiar with the latest techniques and advances in fracture treatment, which can improve outcomes and speed recovery.
- Continuous monitoring: After initial treatment, patients receive regular follow-up from their specialized medical team to evaluate recovery progress, make adjustments to the treatment plan, and provide support throughout the process.
Trauma clinic in Madrid for treatment of tibia and fibula fractures
Elgeadi Traumatology, our clinic specialized in traumatology in Madrid, we offer a comprehensive and specialized approach to the treatment of tibia and fibula fractures. We have a team of trauma surgeons highly trained and experienced in the management of bone injuries, using the most advanced and minimally invasive techniques available.
In Elgeadi Traumatology, our professionals are committed to providing adequate and personalized treatment to recover fractures, minimizing possible complications and promoting a successful recovery. Do not hesitate to ask for a date with us to receive the specialized care you need for your bone health.
56 thoughts on “Fractura de tibia y peroné: identificación, tratamiento y recuperación”
It is normal that after two months of surgery for a fracture of the tibia and fibula at the ankle, a burning sensation persists that prevents me from sleeping at night unless I take a tranquilizer.
Hello John,
Each case is unique. We would have to evaluate your case, see what type of rehabilitation is being done and more clinical information that is essential to know if these symptoms are normal or not.
You can contact us by calling +34 91 005 39 00 to make an appointment.
Greetings
Hello, I would like to know the maximum time to operate after knowing that there is a fracture of the tibia and fibula. Do I have to wait for the ankle to go down in swelling? Regards.
Hello Jorge,
The time to operate on a tibia and fibula fracture depends on the inflammation and the state of the soft tissues. Generally, the surgeon waits until the inflammation subsides (between 5 and 10 days) to reduce surgical risks, unless the fracture is exposed or unstable, in which case the operation is performed immediately.
Greetings.
I arrived at the hospital urgently. It's been 5 days and I haven't had any surgery. What should I do?
Hello, I am very sorry to hear about the situation you are going through. If it has been five days since you arrived at the hospital and you have not had surgery, I would recommend that you speak directly with the medical team that is treating you to express your concern and request an update on your situation. It is essential that the medical staff thoroughly evaluate your case and determine the appropriate treatment. If you have any questions or do not feel heard, you can also ask for a second opinion.
If you wish, you can request an appointment with our team by calling (+34) 91 005 39 00.
I had surgery on my tibial metatarsal bone and fibula and I will be 2 months pregnant and I cannot move my feet or bend my knee. What can I do?
Hello Janina,
We are sorry to hear that you are having difficulty with movement after surgery. It is important that you follow your surgeon's instructions to ensure a proper recovery. In some cases, lack of mobility may be part of the post-surgical process, but it is also essential to have an evaluation to ensure there are no complications.
We suggest you consult with your doctor or a rehabilitation specialist so that he or she can evaluate your case and recommend the appropriate treatment, such as physical therapy, to improve the mobility of your knee and foot. If you would like a second opinion on your case, do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with our specialists by calling 91 005 39 00.
Greetings.
On January 6th I had surgery on my tibia and fibula and this Monday, February 3rd I have a doctor's appointment.
I have been without walking for almost a month, with a splint and I would like to know if they will remove the splint on February 3. Thank you very much.
Hello Josune,
Removal of the splint will depend on how the bone has healed and on your doctor's assessment. The time without weight bearing varies depending on the severity of the fracture and the type of fixation used. It is important that you follow your specialist's instructions, as premature removal could affect your recovery. At that appointment, you will be informed whether it is possible to remove it or if you need more immobilisation time.
If you would like a second opinion or specialized follow-up, you can schedule an appointment with our team by calling +34 91 005 39 00.
Greetings.
I have been operating on my tibia and fibula for a month now. My ankle is still swollen and I have pain below the fracture site. Is this normal or should I be concerned and seek medical advice?
Hello cecilia,
It is normal for swelling to persist for a while after surgery, especially in the ankle area, as the body is in the process of healing. However, if the pain below the fracture persists or worsens, or if you notice that the swelling does not subside over time, I would suggest you consult your doctor. Your specialist will be able to assess the progress of your recovery, rule out possible complications, and adjust your treatment if necessary.
Greetings.
Hello, my 12-year-old son plays soccer and fractured his tibia and fibula without displacement. On December 3, 2024, he was in a cast for 6 weeks and in an orthopedic boot for 4 weeks. He is now undergoing rehabilitation. On March 3, 3 months will be completed when he could resume soccer.
Hello Gaby,
The right time for your child to return to football should be determined by the doctor who is following him, as it is essential to evaluate how his recovery has evolved and his response to rehabilitation. If you wish, you can schedule an appointment with our specialists by calling 91 005 39 00, so that they can evaluate his case in detail and determine whether it is safe for him to play football again.
Greetings.
Hello, a month ago I had surgery on my tibia and fibula. My foot continues to turn red from the surgery area when I walk with crutches. My ankle is also very stiff and swollen. I try to move it but I feel an intense circular pain underneath it. If I have followed medical instructions, why is this happening?
Hello Second,
The symptoms you describe, such as redness, stiffness, and pain, may be a normal response of the body to the recovery process after tibia and fibula surgery. Swelling and pain in the ankle area can be common, especially during the first few weeks after surgery when the body is healing and adjusting.
However, it is important to inform your doctor about these symptoms so that he or she can determine whether they are part of the normal recovery process or whether adjustments to your treatment are necessary. In the meantime, be sure to follow medical recommendations to the letter, avoid overloading the operated area and give your body time to heal.
Greetings and have a speedy recovery.
On January 15, I had surgery on my tibia and fibula. Is it normal that I still feel that the screws and plate are hurting me when I place my leg on the side where the surgery was performed? And is it normal that the bone has not yet consolidated? That is why they have not prescribed me any therapies?
Hello Ana Julia,
After tibia and fibula surgery, you may still feel discomfort around the screws and plate, especially when positioning your leg at certain angles. These sensations may be part of the healing process, but if they persist or are uncomfortable, it's important to mention them to your surgeon.
As for bone healing, each case is unique, and recovery time can vary depending on several factors, such as age, general health, and the type of fracture. Bone healing can take longer than expected in some cases, which is why you may not have been referred to physical therapy yet.
It is important that you follow your doctor's instructions and do not hesitate to consult with him for a more detailed evaluation and to ensure that everything is progressing correctly.
Greetings.
Bonjour ces Shirley de l'île Maurice, après une fracture du tibia et péroné mon médecin m'a opéré que le tibia en mettant un métal et des vices, mais mais que le péroné will take place avec le temps es norma? aussi après mon décharge a l'hôpital ces maintenant que je commence avoir des vertiges de temps à autres sa me fait peur
Hello Shirley,
It is normal that the medicine is soit concentrated on the tibia, in the name of the case, the fibula is not in the process of receiving a surgical intervention in its place. Sa guérison peut se faire naturellement avec le temps.
In ce qui concerne les vertiges, il est important que vous consultiez votre médecin pour exclure toute cause liée à la chirurgie ou à d'autres facteurs. Parfois, les vertiges peuvent être des effets secondaires des Médicaments ou de l'immobilisation, mais il est essentiel de procéder à une évaluation plus approfondie.
Our recommendations are for your doctor to obtain a more precise response regarding these symptoms.
Greetings.
My son had emergency surgery on his tibia and fibula. He has not been able to put weight on his ankle for a month and it is very swollen, normal and red and now yellow.
Hello Mila,
It is normal to experience swelling and color changes in the affected area after tibia and fibula surgery due to inflammation and the healing process. The initial red color may be a sign of inflammation, and the change to yellow indicates that the body is processing the bruising.
However, since each case is unique, it is important to talk to your child's doctor to make sure everything is progressing as planned.
Greetings.
Hello, I'm from 🇦🇷. I fractured my fibula. They put me in a cast for 10 days until I bought the prosthesis that the doctor ordered. He operated on me 14 days ago. They removed the stitches 15 days later and sent me to rehab. What happens is that I'm 55 years old and obese. My leg swells and I have to rest with my leg elevated. Is that correct?
Hello Nancy,
Thank you for sharing your situation. It is normal to experience swelling in your leg after surgery, especially in the early stages of recovery. Elevating your leg and resting are common recommendations to reduce swelling and aid in healing. However, since you are 55 years old and have a high obesity rate, it is essential to follow your doctor's instructions and, if you have any concerns, consult with him or her about the rehabilitation process tailored to your specific case.
Remember that rehabilitation is key to regaining mobility and strengthening your leg. If you would like a second opinion, please do not hesitate to contact us at (+34) 910 05 39 00 so that our specialists can evaluate your case in detail.
Greetings.
Hello, I have a question. Two days ago I slipped and when I stood up I put my good foot on the foot that I fractured. My question is: am I afraid that something in my tibia has moved? I have 4 screws, a hook and a plate? The area where I have the scar doesn't hurt and the area on top of the sole doesn't hurt either. Thank you very much.
Hello Cristina,
If you don't experience pain in the scar area or on the sole of your foot, this is a good indication that there has been no displacement. However, each case is unique, and it is best to consult with your doctor or orthopedist for an evaluation and to confirm that everything is in place. If you have any doubts, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion. We hope you get better soon!
Hello, I have a question. My daughter fractured her tibia and fibula. They put a cast on her above the knee. Her cast was removed, but she can't move her knee. It hurts a lot. What can I do?
Hello Sandra,
After prolonged immobilization, stiffness and pain in the joint are common. However, to determine the cause and best treatment, it is important to have your case evaluated by a specialist. We recommend a medical consultation to check your knee mobility and, if necessary, begin rehabilitation or physical therapy to safely regain movement. If you would like a second opinion, you can request an appointment at our center by calling (+34) 910 005 39 00.
Greetings.
I asked, I fell on my right leg, the doctor told me through x-ray that I have an injury to my tibia and fibula, my ankle is swollen, they adjusted my foot and put it in a cast and I have to go back, I am overweight, is it risky in my situation, if I also had carotid surgery 4 months ago as a preventative measure, due to having a partial obstruction of it. Is it risky for me, due to my situation?
Hello José María,
We're so sorry you're going through this. Fractures of the tibia and fibula usually require close follow-up, but the important thing is to follow your doctor's instructions and maintain the recommended rest to ensure proper recovery.
Being overweight and undergoing carotid artery surgery can add certain risks, as they affect circulation and overall recovery, but a specialist can evaluate your case in detail and recommend the most appropriate treatment to minimize risks.
It's essential that you follow medical recommendations and attend your next appointment to assess the progress of your fracture. If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to request a second opinion.
Greetings.
Hello, if there was no displacement after the cast was removed, when can you start running?
Hello John,
Thank you for your message. It's important that the doctor treating you advises you on when it's appropriate to resume running, as this depends on the progression of the injury and a physical examination to ensure the affected area has healed properly. We recommend following medical advice to avoid complications.
Greetings.
Hello, I had tibia and fibula surgery a year ago. I would like to know if it is normal that I still feel severe pain in my leg.
Hello Yane,
We're sorry you're still experiencing pain after so much time. One year after tibia and fibula surgery, in most cases the pain should have decreased considerably. However, there may be several reasons why discomfort persists, such as tissue irritation, the presence of osteosynthesis material (such as plates or screws), or a change in bone healing.
In order to provide you with appropriate guidance, a thorough evaluation of your case will be necessary, including reviewing imaging studies and assessing your progress. If you wish, we can help you schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.
Greetings.
Good evening, a month ago I had surgery on my tibia and fibula. Because of the inflammation, I can't move my fingers. I try to move them very little, but it hurts a lot and I feel a lot of tingling. Is this normal or do I have some complication?
Hello,
Thank you for writing to us. After tibia and fibula surgery, it's common to experience swelling, pain, and some limited movement in your toes. However, if after a month you still experience significant swelling, severe pain when trying to move your toes, and tingling, it could be an indication of a complication, such as irritation or compression of the nerves in the area.
It's best to see your orthopedist for a checkup to assess your progress and rule out possible complications.
Greetings.
Good afternoon, my name is Ernesto. I had a fracture of the tibia and fibula. They put a rod and a nail in me. I've been operated on for a month and have had nine therapies. I can already move my foot and knee a lot, but I still can't put weight on my foot. However, in the last therapy, drops of blood appeared in the stitches near my knee. Is this normal or is there a problem?
Hello Ernesto,
Thank you for sharing your case. The small drops of blood you mentioned near the stitches next to the knee may be a one-off and not necessarily worrisome, especially if they're due to friction, a slight overuse during therapy, or the mobilization of still-sensitive tissues. However, if you notice redness, increased swelling, local warmth, persistent discharge, or increasing pain, it's important to consult your surgeon as soon as possible to rule out any complications.
Continue your rehabilitation, always following the instructions of your team, and don't hesitate to report any changes like this so they can provide appropriate follow-up.
Greetings.
Hello, yesterday I had surgery for a fractured tibia and fibula at the joint. They put in a plate with eight screws. I was discharged today, but since I've been home, the pain has been very, very severe. It's like a burning sensation, as if someone were sticking a hot iron into me. Is this type of pain normal? I have constant pain that I can somewhat tolerate, but when it starts… It's unbearable. I also felt short of breath late last night. My temperature is 37.5 degrees Celsius, and it hasn't gone down in several hours, even though I'm taking paracetamol. Is this normal too? Thank you.
Hello Lucia,
Thank you for sharing your situation. After a surgery like the one you describe, it's normal to feel some pain and swelling in the first few days, but the type of pain you mention, along with persistent fever, could indicate a reaction that should be checked out as soon as possible.
We recommend that you contact the medical team that performed the procedure so they can assess the wound, manage the pain, and rule out any complications.
Greetings.
On September 20th, I fell and broke my fibula. I'm 74 years old. I was put in a splint in the emergency room and referred to an orthopedic surgeon for follow-up care. My appointment has been scheduled for October 14th, and I'm wondering if it's too late. The fracture isn't displaced, and I have normal pain when moving my leg.
Hello Concepción,
Thank you for sharing your case. It's best to have a trauma specialist evaluate your situation and guide you through the next steps. Treatment may vary depending on the type of fracture. In some cases, immobilization is sufficient, while in others, a different approach may be required. If you notice increased pain, changes in swelling, or any symptoms that concern you, see a doctor immediately.
Greetings.
hello
4 months ago I had surgery on the tibia and fibula of my right foot, I haven't felt pain or anything but last month the physical therapist told me that the fibula hasn't sealed and the trauma tells me that I'm fine and that I should walk now and that it doesn't affect me at all that the fibula hasn't sealed that many times in a surgery when the tibia can't accommodate they remove the fibula because it's useless, I still don't walk well but I'm already walking without crutches but my foot feels weak in the knee and instep, I hope to gain strength in my foot with the therapies, so my question is if it really won't affect me going back to work with the fibula unsealed?
Hello Judith,
Thank you so much for sharing your case with us. Every recovery is different, and while in some cases, healing of the fibula isn't essential for resuming certain activities, it's important to assess the leg's overall condition, strength, stability, and the most recent imaging studies.
To give you an accurate opinion on whether you can safely return to work, it's best to review your medical history and any tests you've had. If you wish, you can schedule a consultation with our specialists for an accurate assessment.
Greetings.
Hello
I fractured my tibia and fibula due to a fall. I had surgery on July 5th. They put two screws in my tibia and a plate with four screws in my fibula. I was discharged on the 6th with a cast and bandage. My question is… how long should I normally be off my foot for? Could I use an orthopedic boot and walk with crutches, limiting the weight?
Hello Gabriela,
It's important that you follow your surgeon's instructions carefully, as the time off weight and the type of movement depend on the type of fracture, the procedure performed, and your individual progress.
Typically, for fractures like the one you describe, a weight-bearing period of between 6 and 8 weeks is maintained, but this should be confirmed by your specialist. In some cases, the use of an orthopedic boot and progressive partial weight-bearing with crutches may be considered, but only with medical authorization.
We recommend that you continue to follow up with your orthopedic surgeon so they can advise you on a safe time to begin weight-bearing.
Greetings.
Greetings, a question: how many days after tibia and fibula surgery with an intramedullary nail can a person begin to move their knee?
Hello Cesar,
Knee mobilization can usually be started very early as long as the surgeon approves it and there are no complications.
The goal of starting movement early is to prevent joint stiffness, promote circulation, and prevent adhesions or muscle atrophy. Therefore, gentle passive or active movements are often included from the early stages of rehabilitation.
Weight-bearing and more intense exercises will depend on several factors, such as the stability of the fracture, the type of fixation used, and the progress of your recovery. It is essential to always follow the instructions of your medical team and physical therapist to ensure a safe and successful outcome.
Greetings.
Bonjour je me suis fractured the tibia fibula il ya 3 weeks je guérie bien j'ai mal nul part mais je peut toujours pas marcher j'ai très mal au genou quand je mes mon poids je peut pas marcher merci
Hello Mikael,
Our sommes heureux de savoir que votre fracture guérit bien. Il est important de laisser au corps le temps nécessaire pour se rétablir et de ne pas marcher trop tôt. Our recommendations are to carefully follow your medical advice and respect the indicated rééducation plan.
Bon courage pour la suite de votre récupération!
Hello, I'm Emmanuel from Mexico. I had two surgeries three weeks ago. I had an open fracture of my tibia and fibula, and I shattered my ankle. In the first surgery, they put in a stabilizer, and in the second, they reconstructed my ankle. I have two plates, screws, and a nail. I can't sleep at night because the pain gets worse despite the medication I take. I feel like someone is squeezing and burning that area. Is that normal? How long does it take to not feel pain? Thank you.
Hello Emmanuel,
Thank you for sharing your situation. It's normal to experience intense pain, pressure, or burning after complex surgeries like the ones you describe. Each patient's recovery time varies, and the pain may gradually subside, although in some cases it may persist longer than expected. The most important thing is to maintain close follow-up with your surgeon or specialist, who can adjust pain management and ensure there are no complications. If pain increases unexpectedly, or if signs of infection, excessive swelling, or any worrisome changes appear, it's essential to seek immediate medical evaluation.
Greetings.
I had surgery on my tibial epiphysis and an intramedullary nail was placed 4 months ago. Is it normal that when I walk a lot my leg and knee swell and my shin sting? Thank you.
Hello Clara,
In some cases, the body may take a while to recover after this type of surgery. However, it's important for the surgeon who performed the procedure to evaluate the area and, if deemed necessary, order additional tests to determine exactly what's happening.
Greetings.
Hello, on January 25th I had an accident and broke my tibia. On February 5th I had surgery with an intramedullary nail. After 3 days I was discharged. It's been 48 days since the operation. I walk with crutches, putting weight on one foot; the other only moves along, touches the ground, but doesn't put any weight on it. I feel like I can put more weight on my foot, but I'm afraid that a pin will break or something will happen to me. Furthermore, on April 5th I'm having an X-ray to see if the bone is healing and to completely overcome my fear of putting weight on it.
Hi Anthony, it's normal to be scared, but with an intramedullary nail, the goal is to stabilize the bone to allow for gradual weight-bearing as directed by your orthopedic surgeon. If 48 days have already passed, the usual approach is to progress slowly without forcing anything. The X-ray will confirm bone healing and determine the next level of weight-bearing.