What Is a Sprained Ankle and a Broken Ankle?

Ankle injuries are certainly no fun for anybody who develops them. Whether it is a sprained ankle, a broken ankle, or a stress fracture, ankle injuries can significantly reduce mobility and cause the patient discomfort. However, many patients are interested in knowing the difference between a sprained ankle and a broken ankle. The answer is complicated. If the pain from the injury gets worse as time goes on, it is possible that you have a sprained ankle. Broken ankle pain is typically felt immediately. Additionally, if the pain is felt most seriously over a bone, then this might be a sign that what you are experiencing is a broken ankle and not a sprained ankle. If you have pain of any kind in the ankle area, please consider contacting a podiatrist for treatment today. 

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Community Foot Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Beavercreek, Dayton, and Vandalia, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.