Management of Talus Fractures with Imaging and Rehabilitation

Initial Assessment and Classification

CT imaging is essential after initial radiographs to determine fracture extent, displacement, comminution, intra-articular extension, and associated injuries, which guides treatment planning, as recommended by the American College of Radiology 1
MRI is valuable for assessing associated soft tissue injuries, bone marrow contusions, and identifying patients at higher risk for osteonecrosis, particularly important for talus fractures, according to the American College of Radiology 1

An appropriate rehabilitation program should include early post-fracture physical training followed by long-term balance training and fall prevention, as suggested by the European League Against Rheumatism 2, 3
Early identification of individual rehabilitation goals is essential before developing the rehabilitation plan, according to the European League Against Rheumatism 2, 3
When immobilization is discontinued, aggressive motion exercises are necessary to achieve optimal outcomes, as recommended by the European League Against Rheumatism 2, 3
Overly aggressive physical therapy should be avoided as it may increase the risk of fixation failure, as warned by the European League Against Rheumatism 2, 3
Patient education about the burden of injury, potential complications, and expected outcomes is essential, as emphasized by the European League Against Rheumatism 2, 3