Broken Ankle vs Sprained Ankle: What You Need to Know

Ankle injuries are common, but the difference between a sprained ankle vs. a broken ankle can be confusing. A healthy ankle is essential for natural movement and overall mobility. When an ankle injury occurs, whether it’s from sports, a fall, or even just stepping the wrong way, understanding the severity is crucial. Weak and unstable ankles from old injuries that never healed properly can further complicate movement and increase the risk of future injuries. Knowing how to differentiate between a sprain and a break, and what treatment is most effective, is key to a proper recovery.

In this article, we will break down the differences between a sprained and broken ankle, help you identify the symptoms of each, and provide the best treatment options. It is essential to note that no rehabilitation should begin on a broken ankle until your doctor gives the go-ahead.

However, once a doctor clears you for rehab, HEM Ankle Rehab is one of the best options for healing any new or old ankle injury, including sprains, weak ankles, and chronic ankle pain.

How Can I Tell if My Ankle is Broken or Sprained?

The first step in identifying whether your ankle is broken or sprained is to understand the mechanics of the injury. A sprained ankle involves the stretching or tearing of the ligaments that hold the ankle bones together. On the other hand, a broken ankle, or ankle fracture, involves a break in one or more of the bones that make up the ankle joint. Here are a few telltale signs of each injury:

• Pain Level: A sprain typically causes sharp pain around the ligaments and may radiate through the foot, but a break often results in more intense and localized pain, especially when putting weight on the affected area.
• Swelling and Bruising: Both injuries can cause swelling and bruising, but swelling from a break is often more significant and may cause the ankle to appear misshapen.
• Mobility: With a sprain, some movement may be possible, although painful. A broken ankle often limits mobility entirely, making it very difficult or impossible to move the foot or bear weight.

Ultimately, the best way to determine if your ankle is broken or sprained is through an X-ray. If you suspect a break, it’s critical to see a doctor immediately. Delaying treatment could worsen the injury and lead to long-term complications, such as chronic pain or deformity.

Can You Still Move Your Ankle if It’s Broken?

A common misconception is that if you can still move your ankle, it isn’t broken. However, this is not always the case. Depending on the severity and location of the break, some movement might still be possible. This is especially true if only one bone in the ankle is fractured. However, trying to move a broken ankle can cause more damage. Even if movement is possible, the pain will likely be intense, especially when bearing weight.

If you suspect a broken ankle but can still move it, it is essential to stop moving it and seek medical attention right away. Do not attempt to diagnose the injury based on mobility alone. X-rays and a professional evaluation are necessary to determine the severity of the injury.

How to Tell the Difference Between a Sprain and a Fractured Foot

While both sprains and fractures can cause significant pain and swelling, there are a few key differences:

• Deformity: A broken ankle may appear visibly deformed or misaligned, while a sprain will not cause bone deformity.
• Pain on Touch: A fracture will cause sharp pain directly over the bone, especially when touched, while a sprain tends to cause pain in the soft tissues surrounding the joint.
• Weight Bearing: A sprain may allow for some weight bearing, although it will be painful. With a fracture, putting any weight on the ankle is usually unbearable.

Again, the only definitive way to differentiate between a sprain and a fracture is through medical imaging, such as an X-ray. If you experience severe pain, swelling, or bruising, it is crucial to seek medical advice to avoid worsening the injury.

Can You Walk on a Broken Ankle?

Walking on a broken ankle is not recommended and can cause further damage. While some people may be able to put weight on a broken ankle, particularly if the break is minor, it is not advisable to do so. Continuing to walk on a broken ankle can lead to misalignment of the bones, improper healing, and even permanent damage.

If you suspect a break, avoid putting any weight on the ankle. Use crutches or another form of support to keep weight off the injury until a doctor can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. In the case of a sprain, light weight-bearing may be possible, but this should be done cautiously and with the guidance of a healthcare professional.

The Importance of Healthy Ankles and Proper Rehabilitation

Whether you’re recovering from a sprain or a fracture, the goal is to restore full mobility and strength to your ankle. Weak or unstable ankles, especially from old injuries that never healed properly, can affect your ability to move naturally and increase your risk of future injuries. This is why a proper rehabilitation program is critical for recovery.

While you should not attempt any rehab on a broken ankle until your doctor approves, once you have the green light, HEM Ankle Rehab is an excellent option to restore strength, stability, and mobility. HEM Ankle Rehab focuses on natural, at-home rehabilitation techniques that target the root cause of weak or unstable ankles and provide long-term results. Whether you’re dealing with a new sprain or an old injury that never healed correctly, HEM Ankle Rehab offers a comprehensive solution.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between a broken ankle and a sprained ankle is crucial for proper treatment and recovery. A broken ankle often requires medical intervention and should not be rehabilitated until cleared by a doctor. A sprain, while painful, can often be treated at home with a proper rehab program. Always seek professional medical advice if you are unsure of the severity of your injury.

Once you are ready for rehab, HEM Ankle Rehab is a trusted program that can help you heal from ankle sprains, strengthen weak ankles, and prevent future injuries. By focusing on long-term health and mobility, you can ensure that your ankles remain strong and stable, allowing you to move naturally and without pain.