What is a lateral malleolus fracture?
A lateral malleolus fracture is a relatively common condition characterized by a break in the bony prominence situated at the outer aspect of the ankle known as the lateral malleolus (figure 1). The lower leg comprises of 2 long bones, known as the fibula and the tibia, which are situated beside each other (figure 2). The fibula bone lies on the outer aspect of the lower leg and forms joints with the tibia (near the knee and ankle) and the talus in the ankle (figure 2). The fibula bone has a bony lump situated at the outer aspect of the ankle known as the lateral malleolus (figure 1). During certain activities such as landing from a jump, or when rolling an ankle, stress is placed on the fibula and lateral malleolus. When this stress is traumatic and beyond what the bone can withstand a break in the lateral malleolus may occur. This condition is known as a lateral malleolus fracture. A lateral malleolus fracture is relatively common among the elderly, but can also occur in the younger
