Ankle Sprain vs Strain vs Fracture: What's the Difference?

Understanding the Types of Ankle Injuries

The three most common types of ankle injuries are sprains, strains, and fractures, each involving damage to different structures. Recognising the likely type of injury based on the mechanism and symptoms is the first step towards appropriate care and a successful return to activity.

What Is an Ankle Sprain?

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments supporting the ankle joint are overstretched or torn. Ligaments are tough bands of connective tissue that stabilise the joint. Sprains typically result from sudden twisting or rolling of the ankle.

Common symptoms:

• Swelling and bruising
• Pain with movement or weight-bearing
• Joint instability
• Popping sensation at the time of injury

Sprains are classified as Grade I (mild), Grade II (moderate), or Grade III (severe ligament tears).

Learn more here: Ankle Sprain Treatment in Singapore

What Is an Ankle Strain?

An ankle strain involves injury to the muscles or tendons around the ankle, typically due to overstretching or overuse. Strains are often associated with repetitive motion or sudden forceful movements.

Common symptoms:

• Muscle cramping or spasms
• Localised pain
• Swelling and weakness
• Difficulty moving the ankle

Although strains are less common than sprains, they can significantly impact mobility and function.

What Is an Ankle Fracture?

An ankle fracture refers to a break in one or more bones of the ankle joint, including the tibia, fibula, or talus. Fractures can result from high-impact trauma such as falls, car accidents, or sports injuries.

Common symptoms:

• Severe pain and immediate swelling
• Inability to bear weight
• Bruising and deformity
• Bone protrusion in severe cases

Fractures can range from hairline cracks to complex multi-bone injuries.

How Common Are These Injuries?

Ankle injuries are some of the most frequent musculoskeletal issues seen in clinics and emergency departments. Whether from sports, uneven pavements, or everyday missteps, they can happen to anyone — from active youth to working adults and seniors.

While many sprains and strains may seem minor at first, not treating them properly can lead to recurring pain, instability, or long-term joint problems. That is why early assessment and the right recovery plan make all the difference.

When Should You Seek Medical Help?

While many ankle strains, sprains, and fractures improve with rest and home care, seek specialist advice if you experience:

• Persistent swelling and bruising
• Inability to bear weight or walk
• Pain that does not improve with rest
• Obvious deformity of the ankle

Early treatment helps prevent chronic instability, arthritis, or prolonged immobility.

Diagnosis and Imaging

Ankle injuries are typically diagnosed through a series of examinations and imaging tests:

• Physical examination to assess tenderness, swelling, and range of motion
• X-rays to rule out fractures
• MRI or ultrasound for detailed ligament or tendon assessment

These diagnostic tools help ensure the patient receives the appropriate treatment for a smoother recovery.

Treatment Options

At Axis Orthopaedic Centre, we provide tailored treatment plans for ankle injuries based on the severity of each condition. If surgery is required, Dr Seng offers minimally invasive techniques to optimise recovery and minimise downtime.

For Sprains

Treatment for ankle sprains typically begins with conservative management, followed by rehabilitation. However, more severe cases may require surgical interventions.

• Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (RICE): This self-care measure is crucial during the first 2-3 days after the injury. It aims to reduce inflammation, control swelling, and provide early support to the injured tissues.
• Ankle Bracing or Splinting: External supports help stabilise the ankle and prevent further injury while in recovery.
• Physiotherapy: Once the pain and swelling start to subside, exercises are gradually introduced to restore strength and stability and improve range of motion.
• Surgery: In severe cases that do not respond to conservative treatment, minimally invasive ligament repair or replacement may be necessary to restore function.

For Strains

Similar to ankle sprains, strains are often treated through conservative methods.

• Rest: Temporary activity modification and refraining from aggravating activity help prevent further strain and allow tissue recovery.
• Rehabilitation: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises are used to prevent stiffness and activate the muscles to promote healing.
• Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Heat Therapy and Massage: Once the initial swelling subsides, heat therapy and massage may be performed to increase blood flow, reduce spasms and pain, and promote healing.

For Fractures

Fractures require precise management to ensure bone healing and restore function.

• Immobilisation: A leg cast or walking boot is used for non-displaced fractures to allow proper alignment and healing. While wearing these immobilisation devices, the patient will be advised to avoid putting weight on the affected ankle for several weeks.
• Surgical Fixation: For displaced, unstable, or complex fractures, open reduction or internal fixation may be performed to repair the bones and promote healing. Patients must avoid putting weight on their ankles for several weeks after surgery to aid in recovery and avoid complications.
• Rehabilitation: A comprehensive physiotherapy programme is vital to restore strength, mobility, and functional independence.

Why Consult Dr Seng Chusheng for Ankle Injuries?

With years of specialised training in foot and ankle orthopaedics, Dr Seng offers a personalised and comprehensive approach to treatment. At Axis Orthopaedic Centre, treatment is supported by advanced diagnostics and surgical expertise, ensuring you receive the right care, every step of the way.