Sprains and fractures can both cause pain, swelling and bruising, so they are not always easy to tell apart. A sprain is an injury to a ligament, while a fracture is a broken bone.
A fracture is more likely if:
- The limb looks bent or out of shape.
- You cannot put weight on it or move it.
- The pain is severe or getting worse.
- There is numbness, tingling, or a cold or pale limb.
For a mild injury, rest it, apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth for up to 20 minutes every few hours, use a compression bandage and keep it raised. Get it checked at urgent care if you cannot bear weight or it is not improving after a few days, as an X-ray may be needed. Call emergency services or go to the emergency room straight away if the limb looks bent or out of shape, bone is visible through the skin, there is heavy bleeding, or the hand or foot below the injury is cold, pale, numb or blue.
Browse more helpful articles on YetiCoolerz.com.
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice from a qualified health professional.
