Fracture & Joint Care for Foot & Ankle Injuries — Lake Travis, TX
From metatarsal stress fractures to ankle dislocations, fractures and joint injuries in the foot and ankle require expert evaluation and precise treatment to heal correctly. At Elite Foot & Ankle Associates near Lake Travis, TX, we offer in-office digital X-ray, comprehensive fracture assessment, and the full treatment spectrum — from conservative immobilization to surgical fixation — all under one roof.
WHAT IS IT?
Foot and ankle fractures involve breaks in one or more of the 28 bones of the foot or the bones that make up the ankle joint. Joint dislocations occur when bones shift out of their normal position at a joint. Both can occur from acute trauma or, in the case of stress fractures, from repetitive overload over time.
COMMON CAUSES
- Acute trauma: falls, twisting injuries, direct impact
- Overuse: repetitive stress fractures from running or military training
- Osteoporosis or low bone density reducing fracture resistance
- Sudden muscular forces avulsing small bone fragments
- Landing heavily from a height
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
- Immediate pain at the injury site
- Swelling and bruising developing within hours
- Difficulty bearing weight
- Visible deformity (dislocations or displaced fractures)
- Point tenderness directly over a bone
- Pain that worsens with impact and improves with rest (stress fractures)
TREATMENT OPTIONS
- Digital X-ray and MRI for complete fracture characterization
- Casting, walking boot, or splinting for stable fractures
- Fracture reduction (manipulation back into alignment)
- Post-injury rehabilitation
- Open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) for displaced or unstable fractures
- Stress fracture management with activity modification and offloading
- Joint dislocation reduction and stabilization
WHY ELITE FOOT & ANKLE?
Fractures and joint injuries treated incorrectly — or not at all — lead to malunion, chronic arthritis, instability, and persistent pain. Our in-office X-ray capabilities mean you get answers the same day, not after days of waiting for imaging referrals. We manage the complete episode of care from diagnosis through rehabilitation.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The most common are fifth metatarsal fractures (from ankle rolling), stress fractures of the metatarsals (from running), calcaneus fractures (heel bone, from falls), and ankle fractures (malleolus). Each has distinct treatment protocols.
A Jones fracture is a specific fracture at the base of the fifth metatarsal in a zone of poor blood supply. It heals slowly and has a high re-fracture rate, which is why it often requires surgical fixation with a screw — particularly in athletes.
Simple metatarsal stress fractures typically heal in 4–6 weeks with proper offloading. Displaced or unstable metatarsal fractures requiring surgery take 6–10 weeks. Return to full activity follows clinical and X-ray evidence of healing.
It depends on the fracture pattern and stability. Isolated, non-displaced fractures of the lateral malleolus (the bony bump on the outside of the ankle) often heal in a boot. Bi-malleolar, tri-malleolar, or displaced fractures typically require surgical fixation to ensure proper alignment.
Some foot fractures — particularly stress fractures and non-displaced fractures — heal well in a protective walking boot. Casts are used when precise immobilization is needed. We'll recommend the most appropriate immobilization based on your specific fracture.
SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT
Suspected fracture or joint injury? Don’t wait. Call Elite Foot & Ankle Associates near Lake Travis, TX at (512) 907-3100 for prompt evaluation. Same-day and next-day appointments available. Dr. Nolaska serves Lake Travis, Lakeway, Bee Cave, Westlake, and Austin, TX.
Fractures, joint dislocations, tendon/ligament injuries, joint repair
Our Sports Medicine Podiatry service offers extensive expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of foot and ankle injuries, including fractures, joint dislocations, tendon and ligament damage, and joint repairs. Our skilled podiatrists have a deep understanding of lower-extremity anatomy and use advanced diagnostic technology to accurately evaluate each injury. Whether managing a complex fracture, a dislocated joint, or a tendon or ligament injury, we create personalized treatment plans focused on optimal recovery.
Through both surgical and non-surgical solutions, our goal is to restore full function, reduce the risk of long-term complications, and support lasting performance. Guided by evidence-based care and comprehensive rehabilitation, our Foot and Ankle Injury service helps athletes rebuild strength, stability, and confidence as they return to activity.
