Sprains and fractures of the foot and ankle bones are common and can result in long-term disability if not properly treated.
A sprain is a tear in the ligament that takes place when the ligament is stretched too far.
A fracture is a bone break that can happen in several ways. The most common break results when a ligament rips away a piece of the bone to which it was attached.
Pain and swelling accompany sprains and fractures, followed by discoloration due to injury to the small blood vessles around the injury. First aid can include application of ice to the injured area and keeping weight off the foot. You should seek professional help and advice from a podiatrist as soon as possible.