Did you break the small bone in your leg? Let's talk about this Fibular Fracture!

How scared would we be if we suddenly rolled over while playing, going down stairs, or in a minor accident, and suddenly felt a sharp pain and swelling in our leg? Most often, this is a broken leg. But everyone thinks only about the big bone in the leg (the fibula). But there is something beyond that. Today we are talking about a break in the fibula, a thin bone in our leg. Since this is a very common occurrence, it is very important for you to know exactly what it is.

First, let's see, what is this fibula?

Simply put, there are two bones in your leg from below the knee to the ankle. One is the tibia, which everyone knows. This is the strong, thick bone. The other is the thin, long bone that runs parallel to this, on the outside of the leg. That's what we call the fibula .

Think of this fibula bone as a support pillar in a building. Although it doesn't directly support our body weight (it only supports 10% of our body weight), it provides stability to our leg, helps keep the ankle joint in place , and provides a great deal of support for the muscles, nerves, and ligaments in the leg. So even though this bone is thin, it's an essential part of our ability to stand, walk, run, and jump properly.

So what is a Fibular Fracture?

Very simple. A break, crack, or rupture of this bone called the fibula is what we call a Fibular Fracture . There are several main reasons why this can happen:

• Ankle sprain: This bone can break when the ankle suddenly rolls inward or outward. This is common during sports.
• Direct blow: A direct blow to the bone can be caused by something like a car accident, a fight, or something heavy falling on the leg.
• Falls: This can happen if you fall from a height or slip and fall while walking normally.
• Stress: Athletes who run and jump constantly, as well as those who lift heavy weights, can develop stress fractures due to prolonged stress on the bone.
• Weakening of bones: As we age, especially with conditions like osteoporosis, our bones become weaker. This increases the risk of breaking a bone even with a minor fall.

Are there different types of these fractures?

Yes, doctors classify these fractures based on where they occur, how they are broken, and how severe they are. To give you a little idea, let's look at a few of the main types.

How do I know if I have a Fibular Fracture? What are the symptoms?

If you have one or more of these symptoms after an accident, it is very likely that you have a Fibular Fracture.

• Severe pain: Excruciating pain at the fracture site. The pain gets worse when you move your leg even slightly.
• Swelling and bruising: Shortly after the accident, the area will begin to swell considerably, possibly taking on a blue/purple bruised appearance.
• Tenderness: Even when you press the fractured area with your finger, it causes severe pain.
• Inability to walk: The patient is unable to bear weight on the foot. The pain is unbearable when trying to walk.
• Deformity: Sometimes the leg may appear deformed, stretched, or have an unusual lump.
• Numbness or coldness: If your toes feel numb or colder than the other leg, it could mean that there is damage to the blood flow or nerves.
• A bone snapping sound: Some people hear a "cracking" sound when a bone breaks.

When do you need to go to the hospital urgently?

If you have even the slightest suspicion that you may have a Fibular Fracture, it is best to seek medical advice immediately. Especially if you have any of the following, go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital without delay.

• If the bone has broken through the skin (Open Fracture).
• If the leg is clearly stretched and has changed shape.
• If there is heavy bleeding.
• If your toes are numb, pale, or blue.
• If there is unbearable pain.
• If this injury occurred as a result of a major accident (e.g., a car accident).

In a situation like this, it is safer to call an ambulance service (1990).

Doctor, how do you confirm that this is a fracture?

When you go to the hospital, the doctor will first ask you about the accident and then examine your leg. He will look carefully for swelling, wounds, and changes in shape.

Then, to confirm this, an X-ray is mainly done . The X-ray can clearly see if the bone is broken, where it is broken, and whether the bone fragments are displaced.

In some complex fractures, especially those close to the joints, the doctor may order a CT scan or MRI scan if they need more information. These can look at the damage to the bones as well as the surrounding soft tissues.

How is it treated? How long does it take to recover?

The treatment method depends on the type, location, and severity of your fracture.

• Non-displaced Fractures: A non- displaced fracture is one in which the bone fragments are not displaced and does not require surgery. The doctor may decide to put a cast , splint , or walking boot on the leg to keep it immobile. He or she may also recommend the use of crutches to help you move without putting weight on it.
• Displaced/Complex Fractures: If the bone fragments are out of place, or if the fracture affects the ankle joint, surgery may be required. This involves moving the bone fragments back into place and using plates and screws to hold them in place.
• Painkillers: Your doctor will prescribe you the necessary medications to control the pain.

The healing time varies from person to person. However, it usually takes about 6-8 weeks for the bone to heal properly. During this time, it is very important to rest as your doctor tells you, not put weight on your leg, and go to the clinics on time.

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