Ankle Sprain vs. Fracture: 3 Must-Know Warning Signs

Ankle injuries are one of the most common orthopedic problems. It’s easy to twist an ankle when you’re out running, playing tennis, stepping off a curb, or simply walking on uneven ground. 

But would you know whether you’ve sprained your ankle or fractured it? If you have a mild sprain, you can treat it at home with rest and ice. On the other hand, a fracture needs treatment right away to ensure your bones are properly aligned. 

Our board-certified orthopedic surgeons, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, and physical therapists at Delta Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine treat many types of ankle pain and properly diagnose whether you have an ankle sprain or a fracture. 

Signs of an ankle fracture vs. a sprain

Following are three warning signs that you have a fracture and need prompt medical treatment. 

A cracking sound 

If you hear a crack, you very likely have a fracture. Your ankle has 14 bones, including three in the ankle joint. Bones can crack, and when they do, you’re likely to hear that sound. When you have a sprain, you most likely don’t hear a noise. You’ve injured soft tissue — probably a ligament. 

Misshapen ankle 

Is your ankle at an odd angle? Both sprains and fractures cause swelling, but a fracture can also cause your ankle to turn, twist, or contort at an angle that would be painful and also perhaps make it impossible for you to walk. 

Numbness or tingling

Does your ankle feel numb? If you experience numbness or tingling, you likely have a fracture. If you have a sprain, your ankle is painful. You may also be in pain with a fracture. That’s why it’s important to seek medical treatment when you have an ankle injury. 

An untreated fracture can cause serious damage to your ligaments. In addition, the bones may not be properly aligned, leading to permanent discomfort. 

Treatment for sprains and fractures 

For both sprains and fractures, you want to follow the RICE method as soon as possible (rest, ice, compression, and elevation). You want to protect your ankle against further injury. 

If you have a fracture, we may need to immobilize your ankle with a cast or splint. If you don’t need one, you may need to use crutches to prevent putting weight on your ankle until your doctor tells you it’s safe to do so. Your doctor may suggest a platelet-rich plasma injection to boost healing. 

If we can’t align broken bones manually, you’re probably going to need surgery to line up the bones in the proper position. You may heal in about 6-8 weeks if your fracture doesn’t need surgery. If you need surgery, your recovery can take several months. 

For both fractures and severe sprains, you need physical therapy to help you regain lost range of motion and strengthen your weak muscles that support your ankle bones. You can save time and effort at our practice by following a doctor’s appointment with a physical therapy appointment. 

For all of your orthopedic needs, call Delta Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine in West Memphis, Arkansas, or Collierville, Tennessee. You can also book an appointment through our online portal.