Ankle injuries are one of the most common musculoskeletal issues in the U.S., especially for athletes and active adults. But when you twist your ankle or land awkwardly, how can you tell if it’s just a sprain or something more serious, like a fracture? At Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians, with locations from Chicago and Atlanta to Albuquerque, Tampa, North Carolina, Louisiana, and beyond, we specialize in accurately diagnosing and treating both sprains and fractures so you can recover quickly and fully.
Understanding the Difference: Sprain vs. Fracture
While both injuries can cause swelling, pain, and difficulty walking, sprains and fractures are fundamentally different.
- A sprain is an injury to the ligaments—the tough bands of tissue that connect bones and stabilize joints.
- A fracture is a break or crack in the bone itself.
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, more than 25,000 people sprain an ankle every day in the U.S., while ankle fractures account for roughly 10% of all fractures treated in emergency rooms.
Signs of a Sprained Ankle
If you have injured a ligament with a sprain injury, you may experience:
- Mild to moderate swelling around the ankle
- Bruising or discoloration
- Tenderness, especially on the soft tissue areas
- Pain that improves with rest, ice, and elevation
- Ability to bear some weight (though it may be uncomfortable)
Sprains are graded by severity. A Grade I sprain involves stretching of the ligament, while Grade III is a complete tear that may mimic the symptoms of a fracture.
Signs of a Fractured Ankle
A fracture may involve one or more bones in the ankle, most commonly the fibula, tibia, or talus. In some cases, an X-ray or CT scan is needed to determine the extent of the damage. Signs of a possible ankle fracture include:
- Sharp, severe pain at the moment of injury
- Immediate and significant swelling
- Bruising that spreads quickly
- Pain directly over the bone, not the soft tissue
- Inability to put any weight on the foot
- A visible deformity in the ankle shape
When to See a Specialist
If you experience any of the following, it’s time to visit Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians for a comprehensive evaluation:
- Pain that worsens after 48 hours
- Trouble bearing weight or walking
- Swelling that doesn’t improve with home care
- Numbness, tingling, or instability in the joint
- Visible bone misalignment
At our clinics across Illinois, Georgia, New Mexico, Florida, North Carolina, Louisiana, and more, we offer advanced imaging and a full range of treatment options—from bracing and physical therapy to minimally invasive surgery, if necessary.
Get Back on Your Feet—Fast
Whether your ankle is sprained, fractured, or somewhere in between, Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians provides expert care tailored to your needs. Our goal is not just healing but getting you back to the activities you love with full confidence and mobility.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our nationwide locations and get clarity and relief for your ankle injury.
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