A fractured ankle, or broken ankle, occurs when one or more of the three bones that form the ankle joint are partially or completely broken. The severity of an ankle fracture can range from minor cracks in a single bone to multiple fractures with displacement of the joint.

Because ankle fractures can easily be mistaken for sprains, every ankle injury should be evaluated by a physician. A quick and accurate diagnosis is essential to ensure proper healing of the joint.

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Causes of Ankle Fractures

Ankle fractures happen when the joint is pushed beyond its normal range of motion. If the ankle isn’t straightened immediately after being forced out of alignment, the bones can crack or break almost instantly.

These fractures often result from the same movements that cause sprains, such as:

  • Rolling the ankle inward or outward while walking or running
  • Jumping or landing on an uneven surface
  • High-impact trauma, such as a car accident
  • Twisting the ankle from side to side

Although many fractures occur during athletic activities like running or jumping, they can just as easily happen during everyday activities—such as walking or doing housework.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

Fractured ankles are generally more painful than sprains. In most cases, people cannot bear weight on a broken ankle.

Common symptoms include:

  • Bruising and swelling
  • Inability to walk (though being able to walk does not rule out a fracture)
  • Severe and immediate pain
  • Visible deformity in the ankle joint, including bones appearing dislocated or protruding through the skin

Both severe sprains and fractures cause immediate pain and swelling. However, while a sprain may improve within a couple of weeks, a fracture will continue to be painful until it is properly treated.

Treatment for a Fractured Ankle

You should seek medical attention immediately after any ankle injury. A physician will examine the area and may order X-rays or other imaging tests to assess the extent of the damage. Because each fracture is unique, treatment plans vary based on severity. Most fractured ankles take 4 to 8 weeks to heal.

Non-Surgical Treatment

  • Minor fractures can often be treated like sprains using the R.I.C.E. method: rest, ice, compression, and elevation.
  • More serious fractures usually require immobilization with a cast. Your doctor may recommend a walking cast that allows some weight-bearing or a non-weight-bearing cast that requires crutches.
  • Pain medication may also be prescribed, depending on the severity of the fracture and your level of discomfort.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be required if the bones cannot be properly realigned or if a bone breaks through the skin. Your surgeon will determine the most appropriate procedure based on your specific injury.