The fracture of the peroneum also called fibula, the second bone of the tibia located in the external part of the calf, represents the rupture or interruption of the continuity of the bone.

The major role of the peroneum is to ensure the stability of the ankle in motion, this being possible due to the fact that the peroneum is an anchor point for different muscles and ligaments of the foot and ankle.

The fibula bone is a long, thin bone located laterally to the tibia with which it articulates at the two extremities, more precisely, at the proximal extremity it is articulated with the lateral condyle of the tibia and at the distal extremity, also called the external malleola, it is articulated with the tibia and the talus bone (astragalus).

Fracture of the fibula can occur in three areas of the peroneum, more precisely:

➢ in the lower third, with or without damage to the ankle joint (isolated or together with the tibia fracture),
➢ in the middle segment of the bone,
➢ in the upper third, respectively the tibial plateau area, and the main cause is the car accident.

➢ sports activities that involve rapid changes of direction, such as football or basketball sports
➢ activities that involve running and jumping
➢ osteoporosis and lack of physical activity are also predisposing factors.

In the case of a peroneum fracture, it becomes impossible to hold one's own weight on the affected leg along with the impossibility of moving.

Sharp pain as well as edema of the calf are other manifestations that occur.

The therapeutic approach depends on the type of fracture, open or closed.

In the case of an open fracture (the bone protrudes through the skin) the soft tissues around the fracture are usually injured, and the therapeutic approach is a surgical one. After the period of immobilization post-operatively, the physical therapy program begins, which aims:

➢ to reduce joint stiffness
➢ to regain strength and muscle flexibility
➢ to regain balance, as an important part of the ability to walk without help/unassisted
➢ to prevent relapses
A closed fracture, when the bone is broken but the skin remains intact, is considered a simple fracture. In this case, the treatment aims:

➢ To restore the bone back to position
➢ To reduce pain
➢ To restore the normal function of the bone
➢ To prevent complications

Treatment of the closed fracture begins with the elevation of the leg (keeping the leg raised on a special pillow).

Anti-inflammatory medication as well as locally applied ice will help reduce pain and inflammation. Always apply a towel between the ice and the area on which it is applied.

The affected calf will be subsequently immobilized with the help of a gypsum splint and the walking will be done with the help of crutches.

After a period of several weeks of immobilization, the physical therapy program is started, with the progressive loading of the affected leg and which follows the same objectives described in the case of open fractures, namely:

➢ to reduce joint stiffness
➢ to regain strength and muscle flexibility
➢ to regain balance, as an important part of the ability to walk without help
➢ to prevent relapses

The full recovery process can take up to several months.

✓ Wearing proper shoes
✓ Diet with calcium-rich products helps strengthen bones
✓ Regular exercise also helps strengthen bones