When you stress an ankle joint beyond the strength of its elements, you may fracture the ankle. If a bone gives way and breaks, you have an ankle fracture.

Fractures can occur with simultaneous tears of the ligaments. You can do this in several ways: Rolling the ankle in or out, twisting the ankle side to side, flexing or extending the joint. Applying severe force to the joint by coming straight down on it as in jumping from a high level.

Signs and symptoms of ankle injuries and fractures tend to be obvious. Pain is the most common complaint. Other signs and symptoms include swelling, bruising and deformity.