Does an ankle fracture cause ankle pain?

A fracture can irritate the bone and nearby soft tissues, causing pain around the ankle that may worsen when you stand, walk, or move the joint. Bruising, swelling, tenderness, reduced movement, or difficulty putting weight through the foot may accompany it. The ankle may look unusual when a bone has shifted, but a normal-looking ankle does not rule out a fracture. Sprains can cause similar symptoms. A clinician uses the injury history and examination, and may arrange an X-ray or other imaging, to determine whether a bone is broken.

Avoid walking on the painful foot if doing so increases pain. Keep the ankle still in the position that feels most comfortable, remove tight footwear or jewellery before swelling increases, and raise the leg while resting. A cold pack wrapped in cloth may ease discomfort for short periods. Do not try to straighten a visibly bent ankle or push a bone back into place. Arrange prompt medical assessment after a significant injury or when weight-bearing is difficult.

Seek urgent help for an open wound over the injury, a visibly deformed ankle, severe or worsening pain, or inability to move the toes. Emergency assessment is also needed if the foot becomes numb, pale, blue, or cold. These signs may indicate a displaced injury or reduced blood flow. Until help is available, keep the ankle supported and avoid testing it by walking.

Ask: Where is the suspected fracture? Do I need imaging? Can I put weight on the foot? Will I need a boot, cast, or another form of support? When should movement or physiotherapy begin, and which symptoms require a return visit?