What is a dislocated Ankle? Robert Griffin III Injury

Frequently, we watch as pro-athletes are carted off of the field with ankle injuries. A dramatic injury occurred yesterday with Robert Griffin III, of the Washington Redskins. He dislocated his ankle. What does dislocation mean? This means that the bones that make up a joint are shifted out of position. In the case of the ankle, there are three bones that make up the joint: the tibia, fibula, and talus. When the bones are shifted out of position, the joint cannot carry out its normal function or movement. The joint will become immediately painful and difficult to operate or move. In the case of lower extremity injuries, walking will be nearly impossible. Additionally, swelling and bruising often occur. A dislocated joint must be assessed by a physician, so patients typically will go to the ER for immediate care. Dr. Bender, 708-763-0580