Ankle Case 7 History/Physical Exam

A talus fracture normally occurs after a high-impact mechanism, like a motor vehicle collision or a fall from height. Fractures during snowboarding are also well-documented, so an ankle injury from snowboarding should raise the index of suspicion for a lateral process fracture.

The physical exam will be notable for significant pain, tenderness, and swelling across the ankle joint. Specific areas of tenderness may be difficult to elicit.

Additionally, the patient will be unable to bear weight due to pain for fractures of the neck and body and will have the sensation of ankle instability.