Do I need an x-ray of my ankle if just after injuring it, I have pain when I press on the "ankle bone" (medial or lateral malleolus) and am unable to walk due to pain?

Question:

Do I need an x-ray of my ankle if just after injuring it, I have pain when I press on the “ankle bone” (medial or lateral malleolus) and am unable to walk due to pain?

Answer:

Yes

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Med-O-Meter

MedHead Message:

Of all the sports injuries available, a twisted ankle is one of the most common. The majority of the injuries do not require an x-ray, even if it swells up like a balloon. But if you have bony pain and are unable to take a few steps after injuring your ankle, you should probably check it out.

References:

1. Stiell IG et. al. Multicentre trial to introduce the Ottawa ankle rules for use of radiography in acute ankle injuries. BMJ 1995;311:594-597. 2. Bachmann LM et al. Accuracy of Ottawa ankle rules to exclude fractures of the ankle and mid-foot: a systematic review. BMJ, Feb 2003; 326: 417. 3. https://health.costhelper.com/sprained-broken-ankle.html