Question 1

How do I know if my ankle is broken or just sprained?

Accepted Answer

Both can cause pain and swelling, making them hard to tell apart. Clues suggesting fracture: heard or felt a crack, cannot bear weight at all (can't take 4 steps), visible deformity, severe immediate swelling, or tenderness directly over the bone (not just ligaments). The only way to know for sure is X-ray. If you cannot bear weight or have severe pain and swelling, get it checked - a severe ankle sprain can be as significant as a minor fracture.

Question 2

Will I need surgery?

Accepted Answer

Depends on fracture type. About 40% of ankle fractures need surgery. Factors favouring surgery: fracture displaced (out of position), ankle unstable, fracture involves joint surface, multiple bones broken, or fracture extends into the ankle joint. Simple, stable, well-aligned fractures can usually be treated in a cast. Your orthopaedic surgeon will explain which treatment is best for your specific fracture pattern.

Question 3

Why can't I walk on it if the X-ray shows a fracture?

Accepted Answer

Walking on a broken ankle risks: moving the fracture out of position (making healing worse), damaging blood vessels or nerves, delaying healing, increasing pain and swelling, and potentially needing surgery when you might not have otherwise. Non-weight bearing allows the bone to start healing in the correct position. Once healing progresses (usually 6 weeks), your doctor will allow gradual weight bearing.

Question 4

How long will I be on crutches?

Accepted Answer

Typically 6-8 weeks. Most ankle fractures require you to avoid putting weight on the ankle for 6 weeks to allow bone healing. After 6 weeks, X-rays check healing, and if satisfactory, you can start gradual weight bearing - first with crutches and partial weight, then transitioning to full weight over 1-2 weeks. Complex fractures may require longer non-weight bearing (8-12 weeks).

Question 5

Will I get arthritis later?

Accepted Answer

Possible, especially with fractures involving the joint surface. About 15-30% of people develop some ankle arthritis years after ankle fracture. Risk is higher if: fracture involved the joint cartilage, fracture was displaced and not perfectly realigned, or you had damage to multiple ankle ligaments. Having surgery to restore anatomy reduces but doesn't eliminate arthritis risk. Most people function well even if some arthritis develops.

Medical Disclaimer

Broken Ankle

📖What is Broken Ankle?

🔬What Causes It?

⚠️Risk Factors

You may be at higher risk if:

🛡️Prevention