An ankle fracture can stop you in your tracks — literally. Whether you rolled your ankle during a morning run, suffered an injury on the job, or had an unexpected fall, a broken ankle requires prompt, expert evaluation to heal properly and get you back to the activities you love. At Momentum Foot & Ankle in Boynton Beach, we provide comprehensive fracture care for patients of all ages, from accurate diagnosis through full recovery.
Dr. Christopher Zimmer, DPM, is a board-eligible, fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon with specialized training in complex lower extremity trauma and reconstruction. He completed an advanced Trauma & Reconstruction Fellowship at Westside Regional Medical Center in Plantation, FL, where he managed high-acuity fractures — including pilon fractures, talar neck fractures, and calcaneal fractures — alongside multidisciplinary surgical teams. Dr. Zimmer combines evidence-based care with an honest, patient-first approach — so you always understand your options and feel confident in your treatment plan.
What Is an Ankle Fracture?
An ankle fracture occurs when one or more of the bones that make up the ankle joint — the tibia, fibula, or talus — crack or break. Fractures range from hairline stress fractures to severe, displaced breaks that require surgical repair. The severity of your injury determines the appropriate course of treatment.
Common Causes
- Twisting or rolling the ankle
- High-impact sports injuries or falls
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Repetitive stress from running or physical activity
- Osteoporosis or bone density loss
Signs & Symptoms
Ankle fracture symptoms can overlap with a severe sprain, which is why a professional evaluation is essential. Common signs include:
- Immediate pain and tenderness around the ankle
- Swelling, bruising, or discoloration
- Difficulty bearing weight or walking
- Deformity or visible misalignment of the ankle
- Numbness or tingling in the foot
Diagnosis
Dr. Zimmer will perform a thorough clinical examination and order the appropriate imaging — typically X-rays, and in more complex cases, a CT scan or MRI — to assess the type, location, and severity of the fracture. Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment.
Treatment Options
Not every ankle fracture requires surgery. Dr. Zimmer takes a conservative-first approach whenever appropriate and recommends surgical intervention only when necessary for the best outcome.
Conservative Treatment May Include:
- Immobilization with a cast, boot, or splint
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
- Non-weight-bearing with crutches
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
Surgical Treatment May Include:
- Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF)
- Minimally invasive stabilization techniques
- Reconstruction for complex or displaced fractures
- Post-traumatic deformity correction
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery time depends on the severity of your fracture and the treatment required. Most patients can expect a gradual return to weight-bearing over several weeks, followed by a structured rehabilitation program to restore strength, stability, and range of motion. Dr. Zimmer will monitor your healing closely and adjust your care plan as you progress.
Why Choose Momentum Foot & Ankle?
At Momentum Foot & Ankle, you receive personalized, one-on-one care from a fellowship-trained surgeon — not a physician assistant or rotating provider. We take the time to explain your diagnosis, walk you through your options, and create a treatment plan built around your goals and lifestyle. We accept most major insurance plans and serve patients throughout Palm Beach County.
Contact Us Today
If you’ve injured your ankle and suspect a fracture, don’t wait. Early evaluation leads to better outcomes. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Zimmer in Boynton Beach. Call us at (561) 369-4455 — we’re here to help you heal and get moving again.
