A sprain happens when the ligaments that hold your bones together are stretched or torn. Sprains commonly occur after twisting your ankle, stepping off a curb, or landing awkwardly from a jump.
Signs of a sprain: swelling, bruising, tenderness, and pain when moving. You may still be able to wiggle or move the foot a little.
A fracture means a bone is broken. Fractures can be small cracks or full breaks. They often cause sharp pain, heavy swelling, and trouble putting weight on the foot. Sometimes the foot looks misshapen.
Pain
Swelling
Movement
Weight bearing
Deformity
Dull to sharp, usually less intense
Often moderate
Some movement possible
May be painful but possible
Rare
Sharp, intense pain
Often severe and fast
Often little or no movement
Usually impossible
Possible (bone looks out of place)
Important: The only way to know for sure is a medical exam and, usually, an X-ray.
At Haven Chiropractic & Sports Medicine, Dr. Joseph Sullivan and the team provide safe, effective care for both sprains and fractures (once bones are stable/healed). Treatments include:
Initial care: rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE) and a quick evaluation.
Imaging & diagnosis: X-ray or referral when a fracture is suspected.
Chiropractic adjustments: alignment and joint function after a fracture heals or during sprain rehab.
Soft tissue therapy: massage and instrument-assisted techniques to reduce scar tissue and pain.
Rehabilitation & movement training: progressive exercises to rebuild strength, balance, and coordination so you come back stronger.
Modalities: cold laser, ultrasound, or taping to manage pain and swelling as appropriate.
Therapy programs are personalized. We teach safe movement patterns so you return to work, play, or sports without repeating the injury.
It’s hard to tell. If you cannot walk, hear a crack, or see deformity, it’s more likely a fracture. When in doubt, stop walking on it and get checked.
Yes. Once a broken bone is stable and healed, therapy like chiropractic care, strengthening, and movement training helps restore normal function.
Healing varies: mild sprains may improve in 1–3 weeks; severe sprains or fractures may take 6–12 weeks or longer. Stick to your rehab plan for best results.
Your clinician will advise. Crutches or a walking boot are common if you cannot put weight on the foot or if a fracture needs protection.
Want more detail or a personalized plan? Call us at (907) 746-4263 to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Joseph Sullivan.
If you:
— call us right away at (907) 746-4263 or visit 2020 Hemmer Rd, Palmer, AK 99645.
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