Broken ankles do not all come the same, whether in terms of severity or the physical symptoms that follow the break. What some people think may be broken ankles are in fact just a sprain (though they can sometimes be a severe ankle sprain). Below, we've covered some of the symptoms that may actually occur when the ankle is broken.
Deformity of the foot or ankle
If the ankle area looks deformed when the injury occurs, then it would appear to be a broken ankle. The same goes for the foot in general - although naturally certain areas of the foot would point to a bone other than the ankle being broken. If the foot is no longer lined up with the leg as it ought to be, this is a sign that something in the area is broken or at least out of place.
Protrusion of the bone through the skin
When the ankle breaks, it is possible for a broken part of the bone to cut through the skin. This does not always occur, however. In other circumstances, the bone may simply be pressing against the skin yet not pushing through - a type of deformity as mentioned above.
Pain under various circumstances
A broken ankle can lead to different types of pain. For instance, at the time of the injury, an immediate and severe painful sensation may occur. The area can also be sensitive when pressure is applied or it is touched. Additionally, the patient may be unable to put weight on the leg which has the broken ankle, let alone walk on it or even stand.
What is not necessarily a broken ankle?
Although pain was mentioned above, the pain in itself does not necessarily mean that the ankle is broken, as a selection of other issues can also bring on pain. An audible sound, such as one described as popping or snapping, does not necessarily mean that a broken ankle has occurred. Ankle sprains can also lead to such audible noises.
Get assistance
When an injury has occurred, you may not be able to tell whether it is a break, sprain, or even something else. Get qualified assistance, as you may not even know the extent or severity of the injury at the time.