TIBIAL
FRACTURES

Overview

The lower area of the leg consists of two bones called the fibula and tibia. In this section, we will focus on the tibia which is the larger portion of the bone in the lower leg, between the knee and ankle. The tibia is also known as the shinbone or shankbone. Because the tibia takes on a lot of the body’s weight it is more susceptible to fractures and unfortunately is one of the most commonly fractured long bones in the body. When the tibia fractures it can occur anywhere along the bone. The severity of a fracture can vary from a full break where the bone completely separates or small cracks.

Causes

There are several different reasons why a person may experience a fractured tibia. Some of the most common causes include motorcycle or vehicle accidents, falling especially from extreme heights, or sports-related activities like football. Sometimes a person may also suffer from a disease that can weaken the bones making them more prone to breaks or cracks. This places them at a higher risk of experiencing a tibia fracture.

Types Of Fractures

When a person has a fracture or crack in the tibia bone it will fall into one of the three categories of a tibia fracture. The three categories include:

• Tibia shaft fractures

These fractures are most common and occur along the shaft of the bone between the knee and the ankle. Shaft fractures are the most severe fracture.

• Tibial plateau fractures

These fractures or cracks take place at the top of the tibia by the knee joint and unfortunately may affect the cartilage of the knee joint.

• Tibial plafond fractures

These fractures are rare and occur around the ankle joint and may also affect the soft tissue around the ankle joint.

Symptoms

When a fracture to the tibia occurs there are several symptoms that a person may experience. These symptoms include: 

• Severe Pain 
• Lack of mobility 
• Bruising
• Popping sound
• Locking sensation in the knee or ankle
• Difficulty standing or walking
• Protruding bone from skin (sometimes)
• Numbness
• Tingling

Treatment

When a person comes into Davis Orthopedics with a tibia fracture the first step is to evaluate and examine the fracture. Dr. Mark Davis D.O. will do a physical exam and x-rays of the area. Once the type of fracture is determined there are several treatment services we recommend and provide at our Prescott Valley, Arizona office. Some of these treatment options include rest, immobilization of the leg in a brace or cast, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. 

If the tibia fracture is severe, Dr. Davis may recommend surgery to place a plate and screws, a rod, or an external fixator. If someone is experiencing any of the symptoms of a tibia fracture it’s important to contact Davis Orthopedics immediately to avoid further damage to the area. Contact our office today for more information on the condition and for a consultation.