Receive Effective Ankle Fracture Treatment Near Jeffersontown, KY

An ankle fracture occurs when one of the bones that make up the ankle joint breaks or cracks. An ankle sprain occurs when one of the ligaments that secures and stabilizes the ankle joint is overstretched or torn. Both types of injuries can result from a direct blow or fall—and both can occur at the same time. When your ankle takes a hit, it can be challenging to distinguish between a fracture and a sprain without the help of an experienced medical professional and an X-ray.

Because fractures and sprains are treated differently, an accurate diagnosis is essential to ensure proper healing. In the Jeffersontown, Kentucky, area, Dr. Dawn M. Michels is a trusted provider of foot and ankle care. A board-certified doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM), Dr. Michels specializes in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle injuries at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic.

Fracture or Sprain: Decoding the Symptoms

The symptoms of an ankle fracture can vary based on the location and extent of the break. Common signs include:

• Sudden, throbbing ankle pain
• Bruising that develops immediately after an injury
• Tenderness and swelling
• Difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot
• Visible joint deformity

Most ankle fracture symptoms can also be caused by an ankle sprain, which underscores the importance of seeking professional medical attention. With that said, keep in mind that an ankle fracture may produce an audible cracking sound at the time of the break, while a sprain is generally a “silent” injury. Another telltale sign of a fracture is numbness, which typically does not occur with a sprain.

Receive Expert Care at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic

Whether you have an ankle fracture or an ankle sprain, you can benefit from world-class diagnostic and treatment services at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic. Contact us today to request an appointment with our podiatrist, Dr. Michels, at our orthopedic facility near Jeffersontown, KY.