Did you know that more than one million people undergo surgery on their ankles annually? If you’ve injured yours recently, you’re not alone. Injuries are common when playing sports, dancing, or getting out of your car.
You must understand the types of ankle injuries you could be facing. There are two specific types of ankle injuries that you must know about, and that is sprained ankle vs. broken ankle.
Both can be debilitating, but one is far more severe and requires medical care immediately.
If you’re facing an injury to your ankle, but aren’t sure whether you need care, keep reading to learn the differences between these two conditions.
Pain Level
There is a big difference in the pain level of a sprained ankle vs. a broken ankle. A sprained ankle will usually be a dull ache, while a broken ankle will be a sharp, stabbing pain. The most significant difference, however, is in the swelling.
If you are experiencing pain in your ankle, look for a top Podiatrist at Synergy Foot and Ankle.
Treatment
A sprained ankle is much less severe and occurs when the ligaments that hold the bones in your ankle are stretched or torn.
Treatment for a sprained ankle usually involves RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) and over-the-counter pain medication. You may also need to wear a brace or wrap.
A broken ankle is a severe injury that usually requires immediate medical attention. Treatment for a fractured ankle will depend on the severity of the break.
It could involve anything from wearing a boot to having surgery. This typically includes wearing a cast or splint to immobilize the ankle and allow it to heal correctly.
Healing Time
The healing time for a sprained ankle depends on the severity of the injury. A mild sprain may take a few weeks to heal. The main difference between the two is the amount of damage to the ligaments.
While the healing time for a broken ankle may take several weeks to several months to heal. If you have a very severe break, you may need surgery, which will obviously take even longer to heal.
Prevention
There are several ways you can prevent a sprained or broken ankle. The most important thing to do is to wear shoes that fit well and support your feet. Avoid high heels and shoes with pointy toes.
Be careful when you are walking on uneven surfaces or in slippery conditions. Always warm up before participating in any physical activity. If you have any previous ankle injuries, be sure to wear a brace or support when participating in any physical activity.
An Overview of Sprained Ankle vs Broken Ankle
If you have injured your ankle, it is important to know whether you have a sprain or a break. A sprain occurs when the ligaments are stretched or torn. A break occurs when the bone is fractured.
Symptoms of a sprain include pain, swelling, and bruising. Symptoms of a break include severe pain, swelling, and bruising. If you are unsure which injury you have, it is best to seek medical attention.
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