Can you walk on a fractured ankle?
Many people assume that if you can put weight on the ankle then it isn’t broken, however, it is possible to walk on a broken ankle, particularly with a less severe fracture. If you’re concerned your ankle may be broken, we recommend contacting your doctor, who can conduct an examination or order and xray if necessary.
How do you tell if a bone is fractured or sprained?
Pain located directly on top of the bone – where there is no soft tissue. Pain becomes worse when you apply pressure or move the injured limb. Severe swelling, or bruising over the top of the bone, numbness or tingling. A “cracking” (not “popping”) sound at the time of the injury.
Can an ankle fracture heal on its own?
Although minor fractures can heal on their own, more serious fractures will require surgery. If you’ve experienced a fracture in your foot and/or ankle, you’ll need to be treated by an orthopaedic surgeon who has knowledge of the intricate workings of the bones, tendons, ligaments and muscles of the foot and ankle.
Will walking on a fractured foot make it worse?
This fracture gets worse with time if you keep walking on it, so non-weight bearing is very important. People with this fracture are more likely to develop problems healing that require an operation.
How can you tell if you have a broken ankle?
A broken ankle is the most severe type of ankle injury and will need to be confirmed by a doctor using an x-ray. Signs your ankle is broken include pain, swelling and bruising, accompanied by pale skin, inability to move the toes, and numbness.
How is a broken ankle different from a sprained ankle?
Other symptoms include: A broken ankle isn’t the same as a sprained ankle. A sprained ankle happens when ligaments tear or stretch. Ligaments are tough tissue that hold bones in place. If your ankle is sprained, you’ll have pain and swelling.
How can you tell if you have a bone fracture or sprain?
It is also common with a bone fracture. Look for swelling. In the case of a sprain, your ankle will become swollen, usually immediately. [3] Examine your ankles side-by-side to see if the injured one looks larger. Pain and swelling will usually occur in ankle sprain or fracture.
When to see a doctor for an ankle fracture?
Many times, a fracture causes the complete inability to bear weight, or move the ankle or toes. However, it can also feel and look very much like a Grade 3 sprain, so it’s important to see a doctor for the correct diagnosis. Treatment options usually involve casting, booting, and sometimes surgery.
What are the signs of a broken ankle?
The signs and symptoms of a broken ankle are the same as a sprained ankle. Signs and symptoms of a broken ankle: pain (almost always present) swelling. bruising. deformity (ankle appears misshapen) numbness or tingling. broken skin with bone visible.
How long do bones take to heal after an ankle break?
It usually takes at least six weeks for the bones to heal. Your doctor will probably ask you to keep weight off the ankle during that time so the bones can heal in the proper alignment. Ligaments and tendons can take longer to heal after a fracture is fully mended.
What are the best exercises for ankle sprain?
Include jogging, brisk walking, hiking and aerobic exercises in your lifestyle routine to strengthen your ankles in an easy way. Even squatting exercises and inline skating does wonders in getting strong ankles. Jumping rope proves useful in strengthening the muscles and also the ligaments.
What is an ankle compound fracture?
Compound Fracture of the Ankle and/or Foot. A compound fracture of the ankle or foot occurs when a broken bone injury is severe enough that a bone fragment or the end of a broken bone sticks out through the skin or is otherwise exposed to the open air and/or visible to the naked eye.