How can you tell the difference between a sprain and a fracture. What are the key symptoms to look out for. When should you seek medical attention for an injury. How do doctors diagnose and treat sprains versus fractures.

Understanding Sprains and Fractures: Key Differences

Sprains and fractures are common injuries that can occur during physical activities or accidents. While they may present similar symptoms, understanding the differences between these two types of injuries is crucial for proper treatment and recovery.

A sprain occurs when ligaments, the tough bands of tissue that connect bones at joints, are stretched or torn. The severity of a sprain can vary depending on the extent of the damage to the ligaments. On the other hand, a fracture is a break in a bone, which can range from a tiny crack (hairline fracture) to a complete break where the bone separates into two or more pieces.

Types of Fractures

• Hairline fractures: Tiny cracks in the bone
• Partial fractures: Larger cracks that don’t completely separate the bone
• Complete fractures: The bone breaks into two or more pieces
• Simple fractures: The bone doesn’t break through the skin
• Compound fractures: The bone breaks through the skin and is visible

Identifying Symptoms: Sprain or Fracture?

Distinguishing between a sprain and a fracture can be challenging, especially in the immediate aftermath of an injury. However, there are several key symptoms and indicators that can help determine the nature of the injury:

Joint Appearance

Is the joint visibly misshapen? Both sprains and fractures can cause swelling, but a significantly altered joint appearance is more indicative of a fracture.

Sound at the Time of Injury

Did you hear a noise when the injury occurred? Sprains typically happen silently, except in severe cases. A cracking sound at the moment of injury often suggests a fracture.

Pain Location

Where is the pain concentrated? Pain in the soft tissue surrounding a joint is more likely to be a sprain. If applying light pressure directly over a bone causes significant pain, it could be a fracture.

Additional Sensations

Are you experiencing any sensations beyond pain? Sprains usually only cause pain, while fractures may also result in tingling or numbness in the affected area.

Diagnostic Methods for Sprains and Fractures

While these symptoms can provide valuable clues, the most reliable way to differentiate between a sprain and a fracture is through medical imaging. X-rays are the primary diagnostic tool used by healthcare professionals to identify fractures.

How do X-rays help in diagnosis? X-rays provide a clear image of the bone structure, allowing doctors to detect any breaks or abnormalities. If an X-ray doesn’t show a fracture but symptoms persist, additional imaging tests like MRI or CT scans may be recommended to assess soft tissue damage or detect subtle fractures.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Injuries

Knowing when to seek professional medical care is crucial for proper treatment and recovery. Here are some guidelines to help you decide:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention If:

• You suspect a compound fracture (bone visible through the skin)
• The injured area is severely misshapen
• You’re experiencing intense pain or inability to move the affected limb
• There’s significant swelling or discoloration
• You’re unsure about the severity of the injury

Consider Urgent Care for:

• Suspected minor fractures with little or no visible deformity
• Moderate sprains that don’t improve with home treatment
• Injuries that cause persistent pain or limited mobility

Can you treat minor sprains at home? If you’ve experienced similar sprains before and are familiar with the symptoms and treatment, minor sprains can often be managed at home using the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) and over-the-counter pain relievers.

Treatment Approaches for Sprains and Fractures

The treatment methods for sprains and fractures differ based on the type and severity of the injury. Understanding these approaches can help you prepare for the recovery process.

Sprain Treatment

Most sprains can be effectively treated using the RICE method:

1. Rest: Avoid putting weight or stress on the injured area
2. Ice: Apply cold packs to reduce swelling and pain
3. Compression: Use an elastic bandage to minimize swelling
4. Elevation: Keep the injured joint above heart level when possible

In addition to RICE, doctors may recommend anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen to manage pain and reduce inflammation. For more severe sprains, physical therapy may be prescribed to restore strength and flexibility to the affected joint.

Fracture Treatment

The treatment of fractures is more complex and often requires medical intervention. Common treatment approaches include:

• Realignment: If necessary, the bone is carefully repositioned to its proper alignment
• Immobilization: A cast or splint is applied to keep the bone stable during healing
• Weight management: Patients are advised to avoid putting weight or pressure on the fractured bone
• Pain management: Prescription pain relievers may be provided to manage discomfort
• Surgery: In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the damaged bone

How long does recovery take for sprains and fractures? Recovery times can vary significantly. Sprains may heal in a few days to several weeks, depending on severity. Fractures typically require several weeks to months for complete healing, with the exact duration depending on the affected bone and type of fracture.

Preventing Sprains and Fractures: Tips for Injury Avoidance

While not all injuries can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of sprains and fractures:

• Warm up properly before physical activities
• Use appropriate protective gear for sports and recreational activities
• Maintain good bone health through proper nutrition and exercise
• Practice balance and coordination exercises to prevent falls
• Ensure your living and working environments are free from tripping hazards

What role does nutrition play in injury prevention? A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is crucial for maintaining strong bones, which can help prevent fractures. Additionally, staying hydrated and consuming adequate protein can support overall musculoskeletal health, potentially reducing the risk of sprains.

Long-Term Considerations: Impact of Sprains and Fractures

While many sprains and fractures heal completely with proper treatment, some injuries can have long-term effects:

Potential Long-Term Effects of Sprains:

• Chronic joint instability
• Increased risk of future sprains in the same joint
• Development of arthritis in severely damaged joints

Potential Long-Term Effects of Fractures:

• Chronic pain at the fracture site
• Limited range of motion in affected joints
• Increased risk of osteoarthritis in the injured area
• Potential for malunion or non-union of the bone

How can you minimize long-term effects of injuries? Following your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully, completing prescribed physical therapy, and gradually returning to activities under medical guidance can help minimize long-term complications from sprains and fractures.

Rehabilitation and Recovery: Strategies for Optimal Healing

Proper rehabilitation is crucial for full recovery from both sprains and fractures. Here are some key strategies to promote optimal healing:

For Sprains:

• Follow the RICE protocol diligently in the initial stages
• Engage in prescribed exercises to restore flexibility and strength
• Gradually increase activity levels as pain and swelling subside
• Consider using supportive devices like braces during physical activities

For Fractures:

• Strictly adhere to weight-bearing restrictions as advised by your doctor
• Participate in physical therapy to regain strength and mobility
• Perform home exercises as recommended by your healthcare provider
• Be patient with the healing process, as bone healing takes time

What role does patience play in recovery? Rushing the healing process can lead to re-injury or incomplete recovery. It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s timeline and gradually return to normal activities, even if you feel better sooner than expected.

Understanding the differences between sprains and fractures, recognizing their symptoms, and knowing when to seek medical attention are crucial for proper injury management. By following appropriate treatment protocols and rehabilitation strategies, most individuals can recover fully from these common injuries and return to their normal activities. Remember, when in doubt about the nature or severity of an injury, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Sprain vs. Fracture: How to Know the Difference

Clinically reviewed by Dr. David B. Saxon.

Sprains and fractures are common injuries. Sprains are when you stretch or tear the ligaments around a joint. They vary in severity depending on how much damage is done. 

Fractures are when a bone breaks to some degree. Hairline fractures are tiny cracks, partial breaks are larger cracks, and complete fractures are when a bone breaks into two or more pieces. Fractures can also be simple, meaning bone doesn’t break through the skin, or compound, meaning the bone does break through the skin and is visible. 

Is It a Sprain or a Fracture?

If you suffer a compound fracture, there’s no question about it since you see the bone. However, with other injuries, it can be difficult to determine whether it’s a sprain or a fracture. 

Some symptoms of a sprain and fracture include:

• Misshapen joint. Both sprains and fractures cause swelling. But if the joint looks significantly different than normal, you likely have suffered a break.  
• Noise when the injury occurred. Sprains typically occur silently unless they’re particularly severe. If you break a bone, you may hear a cracking sound. 
• Source of the pain. If the pain you feel is in the soft tissue around a joint, it’s probably a sprain. If applying light pressure over a bone causes significant pain, the injury is likely a fracture. 
• Physical sensations. A sprain typically only causes pain. A fracture causes pain, but you may also experience tingling or numbness. 

The best way to know if you have a sprain or a fracture is to get an X-ray. A doctor can look at the image to see if there are signs of a break in the bone. 

Where to Get Treatment for Sprains and Fractures

If you’ve sprained a particular joint before and know that’s what you’re experiencing, you probably also know how to treat it and may not need to see a doctor. However, if you don’t know what you’re dealing with or it’s clear you have a broken bone, you should seek prompt medical attention.

The decision to go to an urgent care clinic or emergency room depends on the severity of the break. If the injury has caused significant misshaping of the bone or the bone has penetrated the skin (a compound fracture), you should go to an emergency room. If it’s a minor break with little or no change in the shape of the bone, an urgent care clinic can probably treat the injury. 

Of course, if you aren’t sure, it’s best to be safe and go to an emergency room. 

How Doctors Treat Sprains and Fractures

Treatment for sprains

Most sprains heal on their own, with treatment you can remember as RICE:

• Rest
• Ice
• Compression with an elastic bandage
• Elevation of the joint above the level of your heart

Your doctor may also have you take anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or naproxen (Aleve). In some cases, a sprain requires physical therapy.

The recovery time for sprains ranges from a few days to several weeks, depending on the severity.

Doctors treat fractures by:

• Realigning the bone if needed
• Immobilizing the joint with a cast or splint
• Having you avoid putting weight or pressure on the bone
• Having you apply ice to the affected area
• Prescribing pain relievers
• Performing surgery if necessary to repair the damaged bone

The recovery time for broken bones tends to be several weeks to months, depending on the bone and type of fracture. 

Get Care for Sprains and Fractures at Baptist Health

If you believe you have a sprain that requires treatment or a broken bone, visit a Baptist Health Urgent Care or Emergency Care location. The team there will assess your injury and provide the appropriate care.  

Learn More.

Categories

• Family Health

Tags:

• Urgent Care
• Bone Fracture
• Broken Bone
• Sports Injury
• Sprain
• Sprains
• Stress Fracture

Related Blog Articles

• 
  

  Asthma vs. COPD: What Are the Differences?

  
  
  Learn More

  
  

• 
  

  What Are the Differences Between Rashes and Hives?

  
  
  Learn More

  
  

• 
  

  Urgent Care vs. Emergency Room: What’s the Difference?

  
  
  Learn More

  
  

Let’s Stay in Touch

Sign up to receive Baptist Health emails to learn more about your health from our blog, e-newsletter, and Flourish. Or follow one of our social media accounts.

Sign Me Up

Ankle Sprain vs. Ankle Fracture

The ankle is a complex joint made up of multiple pieces working together to allow the foot to move. All these moving parts also make the ankle prone to injury. In fact, ankle sprains and fractures (breaks) are among the most common injuries for Americans, impacting millions each year. Often, these injuries are exercise or sports-related. Furthermore, simple falls, twists, or missteps are common causes of each. Both injuries may make it difficult to bear weight. They can each also result in bruising, swelling, and tenderness. In fact, the two injuries are so similar they are often mistaken for one another. So, how can you tell an ankle sprain from an ankle fracture? We’ll discuss this and more in the following post. Also, don’t miss our recent post about how to tell the difference between a sprained ankle and a rolled ankle.

First, we will explain what ankle sprains and ankle fractures are. Then, we’ll go over the differences between the two, including how they are treated. Finally, we’ll let you know when it’s time to see a doctor.

What is an ankle sprain?

An ankle sprain refers to damage to a ligament, which is the connective tissue between bones. The ligament can be partially or completely torn if an injury occurs. Often sprains are rated as a grade 1, 2, or 3 depending on how many ligaments are involved and whether those ligaments are stretched, partially torn, or completely torn.

What is an ankle fracture?

An ankle fracture refers to a break in a bone. The fracture can be a non-displaced crack in the bone, meaning the bone is still aligned, but can also be displaced resulting in a disruption in the normal alignment of the bone. Most often, a broken ankle is caused by a fall, car accidents, high-impact sports, or injuries where excessive force is involved.

How can you tell the difference between the two?

You now know an ankle sprain refers to damage to the ligament (fibrous tissue) between bones and an ankle fracture is an actual break in the bone. But with that information alone, it is still very difficult to determine which injury you’ve experienced. So, if you’re still asking, “Is my ankle sprained or broken?” try answering the following questions:

• Did you hear something at the time of the injury? Most often, a sprain occurs silently, or maybe with a ‘pop’ sound in severe instances. You may hear a ‘crack’ with a fracture. Additionally, a fracture may cause a ‘grinding’ or ‘crunching’ sound upon movement following the injury.
• Is the shape of your ankle crooked, warped, or irregular? Both fractures and sprains can cause swelling. But if the alignment of your ankle is off, it is most likely a break/fracture.
• Are you numb in the affected area? Though sprains are typically very painful, fractures can often cause tingling or numbness. If numbness occurs, seek medical attention immediately, as a loss of blood flow can have significant, long-term effects and may require surgery.
• If you’re in pain, where is the pain located? If your ankle hurts or is tender when you touch directly over your ankle bone, it is probably a fracture. However, if you’re experiencing pain in the softer part of the ankle, it’s more likely a sprain.

Importantly, ankle sprains and fractures are not mutually exclusive. So, it’s possible to experience both at the same time. In fact, sprain/fracture combinations are quite common. So, be sure to seek medical advice to ensure you receive a correct and complete diagnosis.

How is an ankle sprain treated?

A grade 2 or 3 sprain usually needs immobilization in the form of a boot or brace that can be worn inside a shoe. The goal is to reduce bruising and pain, so elevation and icing can be used in tandem to help reach this goal. As the ligament heals itself, the pain will gradually ease, and the patient should be able to resume regular activities. Additionally, physical therapy is used to regain muscle stability after the duration of the injury. Grade 1 sprains tend to resolve in one to two weeks, but grade 3 injuries can take up to twelve weeks to resume normal activities.

How is a broken ankle treated?

Fractures that are nondisplaced, or are still aligned with the other bones, will need a boot or cast to completely immobilize the ankle so that the healing goes as it should. This boot or cast will replace a shoe, rather than be worn inside of a shoe. If the break is displaced, meaning out of alignment, manipulation of the fracture and surgery may be necessary so that the bone realigns and heals properly. Characteristics of a fracture are what dictate the necessity of surgery. As the initial pain and swelling go down and healing has begun, physical therapy is used to regain range of motion and muscle loss during the duration of the injury. Most fractures will heal in six to eight weeks. Also, if the fracture involves the ankle joint, arthritis could develop in the future.

When should I consult a physician?

If you can bear weight on your ankle but the bruising and swelling persist longer than one to two weeks, consult a physician. Additionally, if you cannot bear weight on your ankle at all you should immediately consult your physician.

Dr. Roger Passmore is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeon at Advanced Ortho and Spine. He provides a full spectrum of foot and ankle care. Contact us today for more information or to request an appointment. 

With two locations near Nashville in Mt. Juliet and Hermitage, Advanced Ortho and Spine provides patients with high-quality, personalized care. We also strive to advance orthopaedic excellence. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule your appointment.

Disclaimer:
This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, or in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.

 
If you or any other person has a medical concern, you should consult with your healthcare provider or seek other professional medical treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.

 
The opinions and views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, health practice, or other institution.

Sprain or rupture of ligaments: how to understand?

Joint ligaments are a kind of association of individual connective tissue fibers. They are designed to connect the bone elements of the joint, strengthen it and restrain the range of motion in the joint.

However, injury or sports can cause ligament damage. The most common are ruptures and sprains of the ligaments of the ankle, shoulder, knee and phalanges of the fingers.

Stretch

A sprain occurs when a ligament is severely stretched under load, which causes damage, but remains intact. This happens most often with sudden movements or falls.

A sprain can cause discomfort but is less severe than a sprain.

Some general symptoms of sprains:

• Unpleasant feeling of tension;
• Moderate pain in the affected area, which may be aggravated by movement;
• Slight swelling (swelling) around the affected area;
• Small hematoma (bruising) that appears within hours or days of injury;
• Minor movement restriction in the affected area.

The symptoms of a sprain can usually come on gradually. In the event of an injury, it is important not to neglect the symptoms and take the necessary measures to speed up recovery. If symptoms worsen and do not disappear within a few days, you should consult a doctor.

Photo 24health.by

Ligament rupture

Ligament rupture – as the name implies, when the ligament is completely or partially torn. This usually occurs with more serious injuries, such as a strong blow or a fall from a height. A rupture causes severe pain, swelling, bruising, and, in some cases, loss of joint function.

Symptoms of a torn ligament may vary depending on the severity of the injury:

• Sharp pain in the affected area, which may be aggravated by movement;
• Swelling around affected area;
• Hematoma (bruising) appearing within hours or days of injury;
• Restriction of movement in the affected area;
• A crackling, clicking or other sound when the affected area is moved.

When a ligament is torn, there is a sharp pain at the moment of injury, but it may decrease after a few minutes or hours, and then manifest itself with renewed vigor.

Photo fizomed.ru

How to understand stretched or torn?

Whether a ligament has been sprained or torn can be determined based on the symptoms and severity of the injury. If the injury is mild, and the pain is moderate, tolerable, slight swelling and limited movement in the area of ​​injury, most likely it was a sprain. If the pain is unbearable, large swelling, bruising and loss of joint function, then most likely a ligament rupture has occurred.

An accurate diagnosis will be made by a specialist after an examination and necessary studies: X-ray, MRI or ultrasound.

How to relieve pain

If you suspect you have a sprain or torn ligament, there are several ways to relieve pain and speed up the recovery process:

– Rest the affected area to prevent further damage.

– Apply ice to the injured area for 20-30 minutes every 2-3 hours to reduce swelling and soreness.

– Taking pain relievers such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, or nimesil can help manage pain and inflammation.

– Elastic bandage over the affected area to limit movement and reduce stress on the injured ligament.

– Try to keep the injured limb above the level of the trunk to reduce the manifestations of hematoma and edema.

How to treat

Sprain and tear treatment depends on the severity of the injury. Mild sprains may require only activity restriction, ice packs, and pain medication for a few days. However, more severe cases of sprains and torn ligaments may require physical therapy, rehabilitation, and, in some cases, surgery.

It is important to see a specialist to get an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Incorrect or lack of treatment can lead to prolonged recovery and an increased risk of re-injury.

Read also: how to quickly get rid of calluses on the legs.

Sprains: types, manifestations, first aid

• Treatment stories and reviews of our doctors
• Promotions in the clinic
• Comprehensive treatment programs

• From patient Semenova T.

  A.

  One morning I couldn’t turn around and get out of bed. I recalled with horror a nightmare of 10 years ago, when I was in the hospital, walking on crutches after stretching, crying from pain when walking. …

  Registered on 12/12/2021.
  All reviews »»

  Feedback Murashova E.N.

  I went to Dr. Anatoly Nikolaevich with pain in the thoracic spine. The pains tormented me for about 7 years, and I was still afraid to go to the doctor. …

  Registered on 11/08/2002.
  All reviews »»

• From the patient Koroleva N.V.

  I, Koroleva N.V., being in the clinic of Dr. Voight for spinal treatment from June 19 to July 19, 2021, I want to thank all the employees of this clinic who are involved in my treatment…

  Registered on 08/15/2021.
  All reviews »»

  Feedback from the patient’s sister Moskvicheva A.B.

  Many thanks to Dr. Anatoly Nikolaevich Voitsitsky for the successful treatment of a hernia of two discs in my brother, A. B. Moskvichev. …

  Registered on 01/10/2016.
  All reviews »»

• From the patient Averyanova B.S.

  Of course, it was difficult to start. Especially the first couple of weeks. But if there is a goal, then nothing. …

  Registered on 01/10/2022.
  All reviews »»

  From the patient Antipova O.V.

  I went to the doctor because of severe pain in the lumbosacral region that tormented me from time to time. …

  Registered on 07/29/2021.
  All reviews »»

• The case was described by MD. Voitsitsky A.N., Ch. doctor of the Clinic Dubovskoy N.A.

  A case of sensory disturbance in the perineal region in a young man after an injury to the lumbosacral spine…

  Registered on 12/23/2021.
  All reviews »»

  From the patient Aksenova A.P.

  I, Aksenov AP, for a long time suffered from dizziness, pain in the heart, seizures, a sharp increase and decrease in blood pressure.