What are the long term symptoms/damage from bi-malleolar ankle fractures. i have had ankle pain since a 35 ft fall in '85, ?

Arthritis: Typically fractures that involve a joint may go on to post traumatic arthritis. This is arthritis caused by the injury not osteoarthritis or whole body arthritis. This usually is localized to the affected joint. Painfulankle arthritis may be treated by steroid injections, bracing or surgery including total ankle replacement or ankl fusion. Ankle replacement is a good option if you are a candidate.

Post Traumatic OA: Ankle fractures can result in chronic ankle pain from damage to the ankle joint. This can vary depending on the exact mechanism that resulted in your fracture and the fracture type itself. See a specialist for this to determine your options.