Our Great Falls, VA, ankle doctor sometimes gets asked to explain the difference between an ankle fracture and an ankle break. In truth, there is no difference between a fracture and a break. Both terms equally describe a bone that has lost its structural integrity through a crack, splinter, or break.
Our Great Falls, VA, Ankle Doctor Explains Broken Bone Terminology
Part of this confusion arises from specific terms such as "hairline fracture." Common phrases like this make it sound like the word "fracture" is somehow different than the word "break." While you can add additional words to provide a more specific description of the type of injury to a bone, however, the core words "fracture" and "break" do not have any inherent meaning to them beyond damage to the bone.
What Are the Symptoms of a Broken Ankle?
If you have recently injured your ankle, you should take care and confirm that you have not broken any bones. Some symptoms of a fractured ankle can be similar to the symptoms of an ankle sprain. Ultimately, if you have any of the following symptoms, it is best to have your ankle examined by an experienced Great Falls, VA, ankle doctor.
- Bruises or other changes in skin color
- Swelling around the ankle
- Numbness
- Bleeding
- Bone poking out of the skin
Call Our Great Falls, VA, Ankle Doctor for Expert Care
If you believe you are suffering from a broken ankle or a severe sprained ankle, our ankle specialist can help! Give us a call today and let us help you restore your ankle health at The Podiatry Center.
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other topics related to podiatry, feel free to contact The Podiatry Center, with a convenient podiatry office near Great Falls, VA, by clicking here or by calling 301.656.6055.
