Phil Walsh's "horrific injury" against Chelmsford City did not result in a leg break – but the Bath City defender is still facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
There were fears that the 30-year-old's career may have been over after his left ankle gave way as he landed awkwardly following an aerial challenge with Michael Cheek.
He was immediately taken to the Royal United Hospital, where the injury was confirmed as a severe dislocation.
Director of football Adie Britton explained: "The good news there is no break in the fibula or tibia and the bone did not go through the skin, which is always a concern as that can lead to infection.
"A dislocation of this nature is still very serious, though, and we will have to see what ligament damage has been caused.
"I'm not qualified to say how long he will be out for but I would be very surprised if he is back before February. Hopefully it is not career threatening.
"I have seen quite a few injuries during my 30 years in football and that was one of the worst I have seen.
"He is resting up with his family in Portishead and our thoughts are with him. All I can say is 'get well soon Phil'."
Walsh – who had a spell as a striker at City but has reinvented himself as a centre-half – returned to Twerton Park on a permanent basis this summer following a successful loan spell at the end of last season.
His loss just three games into a new campaign is a major headache to Britton and first-team coach Howells, who are now hoping some money will be made available to bring in a replacement.
"It all depends whether we can afford it but Lee and myself have got a few ideas about players we can bring in," said Britton, who is hoping for a decision before Monday's home game against Havant & Waterlooville (3pm).
"Phil's a big character in the dressing room and all the lads love him. He is a massive loss but these things happen in football.
"We have seen it loads of times, where you lose your best player or leading goalscorer – you just have to find a way of making it work.
"We have some good lads here who have not played to their potential in the league yet this season, it is up to us to give them back their confidence."
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