High Ankle Sprain

This condition occurs when the sprain injures the large ligament above the ankle that joins the two bones of the lower leg, the tibia and fibula, together. The fibula and the tibia are joined together by the syndesmotic ligament which runs from the knee down to the ankle.

Fractures

A fracture is a partial or complete break in a bone. In the ankle, fractures can range from the less-serious avulsion injuries (small pieces of bone that have been pulled off) to severe, shattering-type breaks of the tibia, fibula, or both.

Ankle fractures are common injuries that are most often caused by the ankle rolling inward or outward. Many people mistake an ankle fracture for an ankle sprain, but they are quite different and require an accurate and early diagnosis. Both can occur simultaneously.

Sprained Ankle Symptoms

An ankle fracture is accompanied by one or all of these signs and symptoms:

Pain at the site of the fracture, which in some cases can extend from the foot to the knee.

Significant swelling, which may occur along the length of the leg or may be more localized.

Blisters may occur over the fractured area. These should be promptly treated by a surgeon.

Bruising.

Decreased ability to walk—it is possible to walk with less severe breaks, so never rely on walking as a test of whether a bone has been fractured.

Change in the appearance of the ankle so that it differs from the other ankle.

Bone protruding through the skin—a sign that immediate care is needed! Fractures that pierce the skin require urgent attention because they can lead to severe infection and prolonged recovery.