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Overview
Fractures need X-rays.
Sprains can also be severe.
When to get medical care
Call 911Deformity or bone through the skin.
Get care todayCan't walk or bone tenderness.
See a doctor soonPain not improving.
Causes
Causes include sprains and fractures.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause can't walk on an injured ankle, or the ankle bone is tender. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Possible broken ankleOften needs care today
An ankle injury where you can't take 4 steps, or the bone on either side of the ankle hurts to press, may be broken rather than sprained.
What you can do at home
- Rest, ice, raise.
Medicines
Splint, cast, or surgery.
At the doctor
X-rays check for fracture.
Questions you may be asked
- Injury
The exam
An ankle exam.
Tests
- X-rays
Prevention
Prevent injuries.
- Supportive shoes
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.