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Ankle pain is commonly due to a sprain or tendonitis. The severity of ankle sprains ranges from mild (which can resolve within 24 hours) to severe (which can require surgical repair). Tendonitis of the ankle can be caused by trauma or inflammation.
A sprain is considered mild when the ligaments are stretched to an uncomfortable degree, while a more moderate to severe strain involves torn ligaments. It is important to see your orthopedic doctor when you’ve experienced what might be a sprain to receive treatment and help avoid chronic pain.
If your ankle hurts or is tender to the touch directly over your ankle bone, you probably have a fracture. If the pain is in the soft part of your ankle, it’s more likely a sprain.
While spraining your ankle can be a painful shock and require weeks of rest and recovery, the severity pales in comparison to a dislocated ankle. How can you tell if your ankle is dislocated or simply sprained, and how can you get the treatment you need? Keep reading to learn the differences between these two very similar injuries.
What is the difference between a sprained ankle and a broken ankle (ankle fracture)? A sprained ankle is when the ligaments in your ankle are torn. A broken ankle or ankle fracture is when one or more of the bones in your ankle break.
A dislocated ankle is a severe injury which usually happens in conjunction with a fracture or complete rupture of the lateral ankle ligaments. They are relatively rare as all the ligaments on one side of the ankle have to rupture (normally on the outer side) and medical help is needed immediately.
A sprained ankle is an injury that occurs when you roll, twist or turn your ankle in an awkward way. This can stretch or tear the tough bands of tissue (ligaments) that help hold your ankle bones together. Ligaments help stabilize joints, preventing excessive movement.