How to Tell the Difference Between a Sprain and a Fracture

Millions of Americans suffer lower extremity injuries each year, including ankle sprains and ankle fractures. However, these injuries often present similar symptoms, making it difficult to know which is which and whether you should see a podiatrist or manage your symptoms at home.

At Prime Foot and Ankle Care, with offices in South Brunswick, North Brunswick, Kendall Park, Franklin Park, Princeton, and Plainsboro, New Jersey, podiatrist Nrupa Shah, DPM, specializes in treating foot and ankle injuries.

This blog explains the difference between sprains and fractures and when to visit a doctor.

Understanding sprains

A sprain is a musculoskeletal injury that occurs when you overextend or tear the ligaments around a bone or joint. The ankle joint has three main ligaments that support its movement.

If you step down awkwardly or roll your ankle, these ligaments may experience damage, resulting in swelling, bruising, and pain. Sprains often allow you to walk, though placing weight on the affected ankle may be uncomfortable.

Understanding fractures

A fracture is a broken bone. Fractures can occur anywhere, but the feet and ankles are especially susceptible because they contain 26 bones in total.

Fractures often happen after a traumatic injury, such as a fall or severe twisting. They can also occur if you drop something heavy on your foot, like a dumbbell or kettlebell.

Fractures can present similar symptoms to sprains, but there are a few distinct differences. Pain is usually extreme and makes it nearly impossible to stand or put weight on the affected foot. In severe cases, fractures can also cause noticeable deformities, such as a bone bulging from beneath the skin.

When to see a doctor

If you suffer a sports injury or other type of trauma and worry that you have a sprain or fracture, don’t wait to make an appointment with Dr. Shah. That’s especially true if the injury:

• Affects your ability to stand or walk
• Leads to severe pain
• Occurs alongside tingling or numbness
• Results in an obvious deformity

It’s better to be safe than sorry if there’s any question. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent the injury from worsening, speed up your body’s healing process, and reduce the risk of complications, like a limp or other mobility issues.

Treatment of sprains and fractures: What to expect

Dr. Shah takes a conservative, noninvasive approach to treating fractures and sprains whenever possible. Depending on the injury and severity of your symptoms, she may recommend:

• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (the RICE protocol)
• Taking over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatory medication
• Using braces, splints, or tape to temporarily immobilize your ankle (typically for sprains)
• Physical therapy to restore joint strength and flexibility
• Immobilization with a cast or splint (usually for fractures)
• Reduction, a process to reset a broken bone to its original position

In severe instances, surgery may be necessary to promote healing. However, Dr. Shah uses minimally invasive techniques with smaller incisions, allowing for faster recovery.

Don’t wait to have a sprain or fracture treated

If you’re concerned that you’ve sprained or fractured your ankle, contact us. After reviewing your health history, discussing your symptoms, and completing a foot exam, Dr. Shah can assess the severity of your injury and make personalized treatment recommendations.

Call the Prime Foot and Ankle Care office at 732-798-6150 to get started, or request an appointment online today.