Difficult to tell: Clinically, it is difficult to differentiate an ankle fracture from a bad sprain. A rule of thumb generally used is that if you can bear weight or walk, it is less likely you have a fracture. If you have continued pain it is best to see a physician.
Answered 8/17/2016
4.1k views
X-ray is necessary: I had a patient who injured an ankle while on vacation in the Caribbean. She didn't want to go home early, so she continued her trip for a week with mild discomfort. Upon her return I immediately ordered an x-ray. She had a displaced fibula fracture that required surgery. Unless there is obvious deformity or bone sticking through the skin, x-ray is needed for the diagnosis.
Answered 12/16/2014
3.4k views
4 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
2 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
5 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
A doctor has provided 1 answer
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more.
Ask your question