Ankle Injuries: How to Tell if It's a Sprain or a Break

Ankle injuries are familiar among athletes, especially those who partake in sports that require a lot of running and jumping. While some ankle injuries may be minor and require rest and ice, others can be more serious and require medical attention. This article will discuss how to tell if an ankle injury is a sprain or a break.

Understanding Ankle Instability

Before we dive into the differences between ankle sprains and breaks, it's important to understand ankle instability. Ankle instability is when the ligaments in the ankle become stretched or torn, causing the ankle to feel weak and unstable. This condition can be caused by previous ankle injuries or genetics.

Ankle Sprains

An ankle sprain develops when the ligaments in the ankle are stretched or torn. This can occur when the ankle is twisted or turned awkwardly. Ankle sprains are common in sports involving jumping, running, or sudden direction changes.

Symptoms of an ankle sprain include:

• Pain and tenderness in the ankle

• Swelling and bruising around the ankle

• Difficulty walking or standing

• Limited range of motion in the ankle

Ankle sprains are usually treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). A foot specialist may recommend physical therapy or surgery to repair the damaged ligaments in severe cases.

Ankle Breaks

An ankle break, also known as an ankle fracture, occurs when one or more of the bones in the ankle are broken. This can come about when the ankle is twisted, turned, or forcefully impacted. Ankle breaks are more common in sports that involve contact or high speeds.

Symptoms of an ankle break include:

• Severe pain in the ankle

• Swelling and bruising around the ankle

• Inability to walk or put weight on the ankle

• Deformity or misalignment of the ankle

Ankle breaks are usually treated with immobilization, which involves wearing a cast or brace to keep the ankle in place while it heals. In severe cases, surgery may be mandatory to repair the broken bones.

How to Tell the Difference

It can be difficult to contrast between an ankle sprain and an ankle break, as the symptoms can be similar. However, there are a few key factors to consider.

Pain Level

While both ankle sprains and ankle breaks can be painful, the pain level can indicate the injury's severity. An ankle break is typically more painful than an ankle sprain, and the pain may be more localized to a specific ankle area.

Swelling and Bruising

Both ankle sprains and ankle breaks can cause swelling and bruising around the ankle. However, the severity and location of the swelling and bruising can provide clues to the type of injury. An ankle break may cause more severe swelling and bruising and may be more concentrated around the broken bone.

Difficulty Walking

An ankle sprain may cause difficulty walking or standing, but it is usually still possible to put weight on the affected ankle. In contrast, an ankle break may make walking impossible or lifting the ankle without severe pain.

Deformity or Misalignment

An ankle break can cause a deformity or misalignment of the ankle, which is not typically seen in an ankle sprain. If the ankle looks visibly different or misaligned, it may be a sign of a break.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you suspect an ankle injury, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is important. Delaying treatment can lead to further damage and a longer recovery time. A healthcare professional can help diagnose the injury and recommend the appropriate treatment plan.

Conclusion

Ankle injuries are common among athletes, and it can be tricky to tell the difference between an ankle sprain and an ankle break. By understanding the symptoms of each type of injury and seeking medical attention when necessary, you can ensure quick and effective treatment and a speedy recovery. Prevention is key, so stretch and warm up properly before any physical activity to reduce the risk of ankle injuries.

If you're experiencing ankle instability in Toronto, don't wait any longer to seek expert care from Sheldon Nadal D.P.M. Our experienced team can diagnose and treat your ankle injury with precision and care, helping you get back to your active lifestyle. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.