In this article you will find everything you need to know about a sprained ankle vs broken ankle and the best ways to treat them.
Ankle injuries are among the most common mishaps that can occur during everyday activities, sports, or accidents. Knowing whether you have a sprained ankle or a broken ankle is crucial to seeking the right treatment and ensuring a full recovery.
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between ankle sprains and fractures, the anatomy of the ankle joint, and how to tell the difference between these two injuries.
Anatomy of an Ankle Injury: Sprains and Fractures Explained
The ankle joint is a complex mechanism where three bones meet – the tibia, fibula, and talus. The stability of this joint is maintained by multiple ligaments and tendons, which when injured, lead to ankle sprains or fractures. An ankle sprain means that the ligaments, the tough bands of connective tissue that connect bones, are stretched or torn. Sprains tend to occur when the ankle rolls, twists, or turns in an awkward way. On the other hand, a fracture involves one or more of the ankle bones breaking. Broken bones in the ankle can result from impacts such as falls, car accidents, or sports injuries.
Sprained Ankle vs Broken Ankle: Symptoms to Tell the Difference
Recognizing whether an ankle is sprained or broken can be challenging as both injuries share common symptoms, such as ankle pain, swelling, and bruising. However, certain signs can help tell the difference. Severe pain immediately after an injury, especially if it’s concentrated over the ankle bone, could indicate a broken ankle. An audible popping sound at the time of injury is often associated with ankle sprains, indicating a partially or completely torn ligament. The ability to bear weight on your ankle is another differentiator; a mild sprain may allow for some weight-bearing, whereas a broken ankle typically prevents it entirely.
Navigating the Complexity of Ankle Trauma
When it comes to common ankle injuries, discerning between a sprained ankle and an ankle fracture can be challenging. An ankle fracture typically refers to a break in one of the bones within the ankle joint. If your ankle hurts significantly following an injury and the pain is localized around the bone, it could be an indication of a fractured ankle. An ankle break often results from an impact or twist that exerts more force on the bone than it can absorb.
In contrast, a moderate sprain might cause diffuse pain around the ankle ligaments, which are partially torn when sprained. An injured ankle with a moderate sprain will be tender, but if the ligaments are not completely torn, the joint may still be functional. Swelling is a common symptom for both types of injuries, and while it may subside on its own, persistent swelling requires medical evaluation to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
A displaced fracture, where the ends of the broken bone are separated, is a more severe form of an ankle break and will typically cause the ankle to look deformed. This type of fracture often requires immediate attention to realign the bones and may need surgical intervention.
Regardless of whether the ligaments are partially torn in a sprain or if there’s an ankle break, both conditions demand careful assessment. A proper diagnosis is essential to rule out a fractured ankle when the ankle hurts, especially if there’s an inability to bear weight or if there’s a noticeable deformity. Only with an accurate understanding of the injury can effective treatment begin, ensuring that the swelling subsides and the ankle heals correctly to prevent future instability or further injury.
Assessment and Accurate Diagnosis: The Path to Proper Treatment
Accurate diagnosis of whether an ankle is sprained or broken is critical. Medical attention from a healthcare professional will typically involve physical examination and imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to assess the ankle bones and soft tissue. In severe cases, such as displaced fractures where the bone has moved out of alignment or when multiple bones are involved, the need for surgical intervention and a more complex treatment plan becomes apparent.
The Healing Journey: Treatment Options for Sprained and Broken Ankles
For sprained ankles, treatment often begins with the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) to reduce swelling and pain. The use of an elastic bandage or a walking boot can provide support and stability, aiding in the healing process. Physical therapy might be recommended to restore range of motion and strengthen ankle muscles, preventing ankle instability. Scientific review indicates the effectiveness of mobilization and exercise for ankle sprain treatment.
Treatment for a broken ankle can vary depending on the severity of the break. Stress fractures and simple breaks may only require a cast or boot to immobilize the ankle and allow the bone to heal. More complex ankle fractures, especially those that are displaced, may require surgery to realign the broken bones and secure them with screws, plates, or rods.
Complex Cases: When Ankle Fractures and Sprains Co-Exist
Sometimes, an individual may suffer both a sprain and a fracture, a scenario known as a broken and sprained ankle. These cases are particularly complex and necessitate a thorough assessment to determine the extent of the injury to both the ligaments and the ankle bones. Treatment will typically address both components, often starting with managing the broken bone and following up with rehabilitation for the sprain.
Managing Pain and Promoting Recovery
Regardless of whether the ankle is sprained or broken, managing pain is an important aspect of recovery. Over-the-counter pain relievers may be recommended, and in cases of severe pain, prescription medication might be necessary. Ensuring that you follow your doctor’s advice and give your ankle the time it needs to heal properly is paramount.
Prolotherapy
In recent years, prolotherapy has built its reputation within the medical community due to its clinically proven ability to treat ankle pain.
Published research has proven its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory and regenerative benefits.
Prolotherapy involves injecting a natural regenerative solution with small needles. This has been shown to reduce swelling, which helps with ankle pain.
As prolotherapy is helping to treat the root cause of ankle pain, it is deemed to be a permanent fix, preventing the symptoms from returning.
Preventing Future Ankle Injuries
While some accidents are unavoidable, there are measures one can take to prevent ankle injuries. Proper footwear, being mindful of uneven surfaces, and engaging in exercises that strengthen the ankle can all help in avoiding both sprains and fractures. For athletes, warming up before activity and using protective gear can reduce the risk of a sprained or broken ankle.
Frequently Asked Questions about a Sprained Ankle vs Broken Ankle
How do I know if I broke my ankle or just sprained it?
If your ankle hurts significantly more over the bone, cannot bear weight, and the pain doesn’t subside, it’s more likely to be broken, whereas a sprain often involves less localized pain and mild swelling.
Can you still move your ankle if it’s broken?
It is possible, but very painful, to move your ankle if it’s broken, and attempting to do so can worsen the injury.
Can I walk on a broken ankle?
Walking on a broken ankle is not advised as it can lead to further damage and prolonged recovery time.
How do you tell the difference between a sprain and a break?
A break will usually present with immediate and severe pain, swelling, and an inability to bear weight, while a sprain may result in pain and swelling that can sometimes still allow for some movement and weight-bearing.
Conclusion: A Step Toward Recovery
Understanding the differences between sprained and broken ankles is key to ensuring a full and proper recovery. While both injuries can be painful and debilitating, recognizing the signs and seeking immediate medical attention can lead to an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. With proper care, most sprains and fractures can heal, allowing individuals to return to their daily activities without lasting ankle instability or pain.
In conclusion, whether it’s a sprained ankle or a broken ankle, the ultimate goal is to ensure that proper treatment is administered so that individuals can regain their mobility and prevent further injury. Both conditions are common, but with the right knowledge and care, recovery is within reach.