Expert Foot & Ankle Treatment from Michigan’s #1 Podiatrist - Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist
One Wrong Step Can Lead To Days of Pain
Why Rolled Ankle Sprained or Broken Still Painful 3-6 Months After Injury?
A sudden twist or misstep can leave your ankle swollen, painful, and difficult to walk on. But how do you know if you’ve sprained your ankle or actually broken it? While both injuries may look and feel similar at first, the treatments can be very different. In this guide, we’ll help you spot the warning signs of each and show you the best steps to take to avoid long-term damage.
Sprain vs. Break: Key Differences, Symptoms & Treatment Options
An ankle sprain involves stretched or torn ligaments, while a fracture (break) means one or more bones in the ankle have cracked or shattered. Both can cause swelling, bruising, and pain—but broken ankles typically come with more intense pain, deformity, and an inability to bear weight.
Signs of a Sprained Ankle:
- Mild to moderate swelling
- Tenderness around the joint
- Limited range of motion
- You can still walk (with discomfort)
Signs of a Broken Ankle:
- Severe pain at the time of injury
- Inability to put weight on the foot
- Visible deformity or crooked alignment
- Pain directly over the bone rather than around it
If in doubt, always get an X-ray to confirm the injury. At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Michigan, we use advanced imaging to provide accurate diagnosis and the right treatment fast.
Don’t Wait—Get the Right Diagnosis for Your Ankle Injury Today
If you’ve rolled your ankle and aren’t sure whether it’s sprained or broken, don’t leave your recovery to guesswork. At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, our expert podiatrists provide fast, accurate diagnoses using advanced imaging and offer personalized treatment to get you back on your feet safely.
Why Is My Rolled Ankle Sprain Still PAINFUL! 3-6 Months After Injury?
Are your ankle sprain ligaments still stiff or still swollen after a twisted ankle or rolled ankle? It is not normal for this to hurt for over 3 months or 6 months! It is not normal to have a swollen ankle sprain after 3 months or 6 months.
DISCLAIMER:
Dr. Tomasz Biernacki received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Kent State College of Podiatric Medicine in 2013; he completed his Surgical Reconstructive Foot Surgery & Podiatric Medicine Residency in 2017; he completed 2x traveling Fellowships in Diabetic Surgery, Skin Grafting & Nerve Surgery. This video should not be used to self-diagnose and is not a substitute for a medical exam, cure, treatment, diagnosis, prescription, or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Biernacki and you. It would be best to not change your health regimen or diet before consulting a physician and obtaining a medical exam & diagnosis. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.
Come See Us in Detroit, Michigan, Berkley Michigan; Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, Lansing Michigan; and Grand Blanc Michigan
Rolled Ankle Sprained or Broken? 7 Key Signs & Best Treatments
A rolled ankle can happen in a split second—during a run, stepping off a curb, or even walking across the yard. But once it happens, that sharp pain and swelling leave many wondering: Is it just a sprain, or could it be broken?
Understanding the difference between a sprained ankle and a broken ankle is crucial for proper treatment and healing. Here are the 7 key signs to help you tell the difference, plus the best treatments to recover safely.
1. Intensity of Pain
Sprain: Pain is usually around the soft tissues or ligaments.
Break: Sharp, intense pain directly over the bone, often immediately after injury.
2. Ability to Bear Weight
Sprain: You might limp or walk with discomfort.
Break: You likely can’t stand or put weight on the foot at all.
3. Swelling & Bruising
Both injuries cause swelling and bruising. However, swelling tends to be more severe with a fracture, and bruising may appear faster.
4. Deformity
Sprain: The ankle looks swollen but maintains a normal shape.
Break: The ankle may look crooked, twisted, or out of place.
5. Location of Pain
Sprain: Pain is usually around the ankle joint and ligaments.
Break: Pain is pinpointed directly on the bone and may feel deep and sharp.
6. Sound at Time of Injury
Sprain: You might hear a “pop” or “snap” as the ligament stretches or tears.
Break: A crack or grinding noise may occur if the bone fractures.
7. Movement Limitation
Sprain: Range of motion is limited, but you may still be able to move the ankle.
Break: Movement is severely restricted or impossible.
Best Treatments for a Rolled Ankle Sprained or Broken
Whether it’s a sprain or a break, early treatment is essential to prevent long-term damage:
For Sprains:
- R.I.C.E. Method: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
- Ankle brace or support
- Physical therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications
For Breaks:
- X-ray confirmation
- Immobilization (boot, cast, or splint)
- Crutches or walker
- Surgery if bones are misaligned
If you’re not sure whether it’s sprained or broken, don’t guess—get it checked. An untreated fracture or severe sprain can lead to chronic instability, arthritis, or deformity.
Full Video: https://youtu.be/9IvchTJGfHo
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Painful Rolled Ankle Sprained or Broken - Need Expert Help?
At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, we use advanced diagnostic tools to determine the exact cause of your ankle pain and provide the best personalized treatment plan. Whether it’s a sprain or a break, we’ll help you heal—fast and safely.
Book Your Appointment Today—Relief Starts with One Call
Fast, Friendly, and Professional Treatment You Can Trust
Rolled Ankle Sprained or Broken? 10 Common Questions Answered
A sprain affects ligaments; a break affects bone. Severe swelling, inability to move, or deformity may signal a break.
It’s rare, but some people can walk on a broken ankle—this doesn’t mean it’s not serious.
Yes. Only an X-ray can definitively rule out a fracture.
Use the R.I.C.E. method: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. Then seek medical evaluation.
Minor sprains may heal in 1–2 weeks; severe ones can take 6–8 weeks.
Typically 6–12 weeks, sometimes longer depending on the severity and treatment type.
Possibly, if the bones are misaligned or the break is severe.
Mild sprains can, but misdiagnosis can lead to instability. Always consult a specialist.
A brace, walking boot, or cast may be needed depending on injury type.
If pain lasts more than 2 days, you can’t walk, or swelling worsens—seek expert care ASAP.
