A sprain refers to stretches or tears in the ligaments – ankle sprains most commonly occur when the ligaments on the outside of the ankle are injured. A fracture refers to a broken bone, which may occur as a result of trauma or as a result of repetitive motions, in which case it is called a “stress fracture.” Ankle sprains and stress fractures are common especially among athletes, and can often be treated conservatively if diagnose early. Kesler offers both surgical and non-surgical care options to patients in Wayne as well as Pompton Lakes, Franklin Lakes, Oakland, NJ, Wyckoff, Fair Lawn, Midland Park, North Haledon, West Caldwell, and Paterson.

It can be difficult to tell the difference between a sprained ankle and an ankle fracture based on symptoms alone. In both cases you may have difficulty bearing weight, it will be tender to touch, and may be swollen, bruised, or red. If multiple bones in the foot or ankle are broken, you will likely lose stability in the ankle and not be able to walk. However, it is possible to only break one bone in the foot or ankle without realizing how bad the injury is – but if it does not receive proper treatment, further ligament damage may occur and full recovery may never be achieved.