What Causes Painful Upper Fibula After Injury?

Posted on Mon, 28 Jul 2014

Question: I tripped over my dog and fell down a few deck stairs but didn't hit them. Landed in the yard on right leg that felt twisted and thought it was broken. Was able to get up and walk but with pain. Let it go for a week as I have been moving my mom into assisted living. Now upper fibula is still painful to the touch and walking is possible but with a pronounced limp. Bruising has begun showing up on outer calf and there is also a red streak of bruising down my shin area. Is this normal and will heal eventually or do I need medical attention?? Thank you...

Answered by Dr. Mukesh Chugh (52 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Most likely a fracture of upper fibula

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for posting
I have gone through your suffering carefully and based on that it seems you have fracture of upper fibula (Upper 1/3).It is common in ankle injury and it heals of its own with Ice fomentation, rest(minimal walking),compression bandages(crepe bandage),OTC pain killer like Ibuprofen in 4-6 weeks time. To confirm it you may get X-ray done of ankle and upper leg region.
Hope this helps and I shall be glad to answer any further query.
Take care

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Mukesh Chugh (1 hour later)

Thank you for your response; however, I am a bit confused by it as well. I have no issues with my ankle and did not mention anything about my ankle, only my upper fibula where the impact occurred during my fall. My pain is located in the same area in ambulation as well as outwardly touching the area. The main thing I want to know, is whether the red bruising/streaking down my shin should be expected with this kind of injury or if I should be worried about blood clots. It doesn't hurt, burn, itch, tingle or have any other sensations than a normal leg would... other than the discoloration. Please advise as to whether I should be concerned about this or if this is a normal occurrence with this type of injury and nothng to worry about. Thank you...

Answered by Dr. Mukesh Chugh (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
The changes described are normal after injury

Detailed Answer:
Hi
It's good to see you
After going through your reply,these finding's are very much normal after an Injury .you do not need to be worried about them.You will get over them in a matter of 3-4 week time and may continue with the treatment as discussed earlier with x-ray of upper leg only to confirm the expected fracture.
Wishing you early recovery.
Take care

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar