Weber C Fracture

Patient information leaflet

A Weber C fracture is a break to the bone on the outside of your ankle.

Healing

• This type of broken bone (fracture) usually takes about 8 weeks for the first symptoms to settle.
• Smoking can slow down the healing process, so it is best not to smoke while your bone is healing.
• If you would like help to stop smoking, speak to your doctor (GP) or visit the NHS Smokefree website for advice and support: https://www.smokefree.nhs.uk

Pain and swelling

• Your ankle may be swollen and sore after the injury. The swelling is often worse later in the day.
• It is normal to have some mild pain and swelling for 6 to 12 months while your ankle continues to heal.
• You can help reduce the pain and swelling by taking pain relief medicine, keeping your ankle raised up, and using ice or a cold pack.
• You can find more information on the next page.

Walking and your boot

• The boot helps protect your ankle and makes it more comfortable while it heals.
• Wear the boot whenever you are standing or walking during the first 4 weeks.
• You can take the boot off when you are resting or sleeping.
• If you have diabetes, please let us know, as you may need a special type of boot.
• You can put weight on your foot while wearing the boot.
• You may find it helpful to use crutches at first, especially if walking is uncomfortable.

Exercises

• It is important to start exercises as soon as possible. Instructions are on the next page.

Follow up

• There is a small chance that this fracture can move. If this happens you might need an operation.
• You might need to have a weight bearing x-ray and see a specialist clinician. This usually happens at around two weeks after your injury.
• The specialist will explain the results and the next stage of your care.

Any questions?

• If you are worried about your symptoms, or you cannot follow the following rehabilitation plan, or you have not received your appointment letter, please get in touch with us.

Caring for your injury: Week 1-6

• Remember to wear your boot whenever standing and walking for the first six weeks.
• You can remove the boot when resting and at night. Wear a long sock in your boot.
• You will be told when to stop wearing the boot at your appointment.
• When you are ready to stop using the boot (wean out of it), start by walking at home in your normal shoes.
• Build up to not using the boot outside
• Using a cold pack will help with your pain and swelling.
• You can use an ice pack or bag of frozen peas wrapped in a damp towel.
• Put this on your ankle for up to 15 minutes every few hours. Make sure the ice isn’t in direct contact with your skin.
• Try to rest your ankle, especially in the first 24-72 hours.
• Raise your ankle on a stool or cushions so that it is above the level of your hip. This will help to reduce your swelling.

Exercises

• It is important to start gently moving your ankle and foot early on.
• This helps improve blood flow and lowers the chance of getting a blood clot (called a Deep Vein Thrombosis, or DVT).
• Do these exercises three to four times a day. Start straight away, working within your pain levels.

Caring for your injury: Week 6-12

• It is normal to still have mild discomfort and swelling. This may continue for 6-12 months.

Activity and Exercise

• Gradually increase your level of activity. You should avoid impact activities for three months. This includes running, jumping and dancing.
• You can now progress your exercises.

Stretches

Balance

Level 1: These exercises are for people who could not stand on one leg before their injury.

Level 2: These exercises are for people who could stand on one leg before their injury

• Please contact the Virtual Fracture Clinic if you are having trouble getting your movement back or returning to normal activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

I am struggling with my boot. What do I do?

• The boot has a thicker sole and this can make you feel uneven.
• Make sure you wear a supportive shoe or trainer on your uninjured foot. This will reduce stress on other joints.

If you need more advice, contact the Virtual Fracture Clinic.

I am diabetic, does this change things?

• If you are diabetic, please contact us to discuss your boot.
• This is particularly important if you have problems with your skin or sensation.
• We may provide you with a specialist diabetic boot.

When can I start driving?

You can return to driving when:

• You are no longer using your boot,
• You can walk comfortably and
• You can perform an emergency stop pain free.

Always test your ability to drive in a safe environment first.

How can I get a certificate for work?

• You can get a ‘fitness for work’ statement from your GP or the doctor at your Fracture Clinic appointment.

What do I do with my boot and crutches when I no longer need them?

• The hospital cannot reuse boots, so please do not return them to us.
• Crutches can be returned to the Fracture Clinic or A&E.

Contact the Virtual Fracture Clinic

Call us on 020 7288 3310 (Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm)
or email whh-tr.fracturevirtualclinic@nhs.net