Sprained Ankle vs. Broken Ankle | IMPACT Physical Therapy

Sprained Ankle vs. Broken Ankle

Woman with sprained ankle reading on the sofa

Sometimes, life happens, and you may wake up to a sore ankle that feels unbearable to walk on, even when doing the most mundane tasks. But, do you have a sprained ankle, or is it actually broken? Learn the signs of a broken ankle vs. a sprain with IMPACT Physical Therapy to see how serious your injury really is. Then, visit our location near South Loop to get the ankle treatment you need whether it’s just a sprain or actually broken. 

Signs of a Sprained Ankle 

If you’re unsure of whether you have a sprained vs. a broken ankle, then look out for the appropriate symptoms. What are the symptoms of a sprained ankle? Here are some warning signs that will better determine if your ankle is sprained: 

  • Ankle pain 
  • Tenderness
  • Swelling of the ankle
  • Bruising
  • Difficulty holding weight 
  • Stiffness in the ankle

If you’ve experienced any of these symptoms, then visit IMPACT Physical Therapy near Lakeview today. To treat a sprained ankle, here are some remedies that usually help: 

Sprained Ankle Treatments: 

  • Wearing an ankle brace
  • Physical therapy for strengthening the ankle
  • Using crutches to keep weight off of your ankle
  • Rest

In some cases, surgery may be necessary even for a sprain. Visit our location for a consultation to see what treatment is appropriate for you. 

Signs of a Broken Ankle

There are pretty significant differences between a broken foot vs. a sprained ankle. This is even more apparent in the symptoms of a break vs. a sprain. If you’re wondering how the signs of a broken ankle vs. a sprain compare, here is how you can tell if you have a broken ankle: 

  • Pain
  • Bruising
  • Toe numbness
  • Inability to move certain toes
  • Bone deformities
  • Swelling

How can you treat a broken ankle? Some common treatments for a broken ankle include: 

Broken Ankle Treatments: 

  • Rest
  • Physical therapy for strengthening the ankle and other tendons
  • Using crutches to keep weight off of your foot
  • Taping or wrapping your ankle
  • Wearing a cast or a boot

In some more serious cases, surgery may likely be required to fully repair a broken ankle. If you’re still unsure if you have a sprained ankle vs. a broken ankle, schedule a visit to IMPACT Physical Therapy near Norridge to get a diagnosis and proper treatment. 

Get Ankle Treatment at IMPACT Physical Therapy 

Contact us to learn more about the signs of a broken ankle vs. a sprain and have any of your other questions answered. We’re conveniently located in Chicago for all of your physical therapy needs.