Often, an injury that causes a fracture also causes a dislocation. A dislocated ankle is usually caused by a twisting injury or impact. To diagnose a dislocated ankle, the doctor will review how the injury occurred and your symptoms. He or she will also examine you and order an x-ray. An ankle dislocation requires urgent treatment to avoid permanent damage to nerves and blood vessels, which can be pinched between bones.
Treatment depends on the severity of the injury.
Severe injuries may require surgery to repair the joint. After correcting the dislocation, the doctor will put a plaster cast or air cast on your ankle so that it will heal in its proper place. If you have surgery, the doctor will place you in a cast for about 6 weeks. Rest and raise the ankle above the level of your heart as much as possible. If necessary, use crutches or splints to avoid bearing weight on the injured area.