[DARISC]

I stepped in a rut and overturned my ankle. Limped through the day and the pain became unbearable so went to doc next morning. X-ray showed hairline fracture and doc prescribed a soft brace (velcro straps), no cast, and I used a crutch for awhile until it healed.

There was NO swelling and the doc said that the fact that it didn't swell up was indicative of a fracture as oposed to torn ligaments or a sprain, both of which I'd experienced in the past, both causing EXTREME swelling. Makes no sense to me, but that's what he said.

I asked what would have happened if I'd not come in and let it heal without a brace. I don't remember what he said - something about a slow, agonizing death I think.

I'd get it X-rayed if I were you, or at least get a drugstore brace like I used.