Ankle fractures are common in older people, they are very disabling and require either a cast or a boot for treatment and the patients need to use crutches for balance. These fractures can lead to complications including non union or delayed union in addition to risks of clotting of the leg vessels (deep vein thrombosis) where these clots can dislodge and migrate to the lungs (pulmonary embolus) resulting in breathing difficulties and/or death. Also these fractures commonly result in patients needing a temporary period of residential care. Therefore, if the healing time can be reduced, there is a potential for large benefits for the patient and reduced care costs for health and social care services.