Discharge advice following a fibula head / neck / shaft fracture

You have fractured part of the fibula bone in your lower leg. This type of fracture usually heals well with rest and support moving around. 

How should I manage any pain or swelling?

The fracture can take 6 weeks to heal. During this time, to help with any pain, discomfort or swelling, please read the following advice.

• Using a cold pack will help with pain and swelling. Place an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas over your injured leg. Make sure the ice is wrapped in a damp towel, and does not come into direct contact with your skin. Leave this in place for up to 10 minutes every few hours. For more information, please read the Ice treatment leaflet.

If the above does not help or your pain and swelling gets worse, please contact the Virtual Fracture Clinic.

Will I need a follow-up appointment?

No, you will not need a follow-up appointment. If you are still in pain after 6 weeks, please contact the Virtual Fracture Clinic.

Should I move around while my leg heals?

• You can put weight on your leg straightaway.

• You may find it easier to use crutches in the early days. After 6 weeks you should not need to use crutches. For more information, please read the Using crutches leaflet.

• Until your pain and movement is better, pace your activities. Do not overdo things. Build up your activity levels. If your leg starts to hurt or swell, stop and take a rest.

• If you are pain free after 6 weeks, you can return to sport and your other normal activities.

Should I exercise while my leg heals?

Yes. It is important to move your ankle and foot as soon as you can. This helps circulation and reduces the risk of developing a blood clot (deep vein thrombosis). For more information, please read the Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) leaflet.

• Do the following exercises 3 to 4 times a day, until your fracture has healed.

• Start straight away.

• You do not need to push into pain. Stop if the exercise hurts.

1. 
   Point your foot up and down.
2. 
   Repeat 10 times.

1. 
   Static quadriceps exercise: Rest with your leg supported and straight.
2. 
   Gently tense the muscles in your thigh and try to straighten your knee further. Hold for 5 seconds, and repeat 7 to 10 times.

1. 
   Inner range quads exercise: Place a rolled-up towel or small pillow under your injured knee.
2. 
   Tense your thigh muscle and try to straighten your knee. Keep the back of your knee in contact with the towel / pillow. Repeat 10 times. If you can, try to hold your knee straight for 5 seconds.

What if my pain gets worse?

If your pain gets worse or lasts more than 6 weeks, please contact one of the following Virtual Fracture Clinics. The clinic opening times are as follows:

• Emergencies only Monday to Friday - 9am to 12.30pm

• General enquiries Monday to Friday - 12.30pm to 5pm

Further information

• East Kent Hospitals. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) patient leaflet.

• East Kent Hospitals. Ice treatment patient leaflet.

• East Kent Hospitals. Using crutches patient leaflet.

[Web sites last accessed 24 April 2026]