What is a fibula fracture?
A fibula fracture is a relatively common condition characterized by a break in the smaller of the long bones of the lower leg, known as the fibula (figure 1). The lower leg comprises of 2 long bones, known as the fibula and the tibia, which are situated beside each other (figure 1). The fibula bone lies on the outer aspect of the lower leg and forms joints with the tibia (near the knee and ankle) and the talus in the ankle (figure 1). During certain activities such as landing from a jump, or when rolling an ankle, stress is placed on the fibula bone. When this stress is traumatic and beyond what the bone can withstand a break in the fibula may occur. This condition is known as a fibula fracture. A fibula fracture is common among the elderly, but can also occur in the younger patient. Often a fracture to the fibula occurs in combination with a sprained ankle or other fractures of the foot, ankle or lower leg (such as following trauma). Fibula Fractures can vary in location, severity and
