Difference in Definition

• Sprains usually refer to a stretching or tearing of the ligaments around the ankle. Breaks involve the bone in the ankle fracturing.
  
  

Pain Level

• In some instances, sprains can be more painful than a break. Most sprains, however, are mild and the injured person can still put weight on it. Breaks almost always require being set in a cast or a boot and require the use of crutches.
  
  

Recovery Time

• Recovery time is often on a case-by-case basis. Severe sprains can take six to eight weeks, but mild sprains can take only two or three. Even a small break will take six weeks to heal, while compound fractures or even shattering an ankle could take six to eight months.
  
  

Care

• Patients with sprains have to see a doctor, but can typically care for their ankle at home with ice, bandages and a lot of rest. Breaks typically have to be monitored by a doctor. Most of the time, breaks need constant monitoring and X-rays.
  
  

Healing

• Sprains are tricky because they don't usually require surgery, and can heal in strange ways. When ligaments don't heal correctly, the ankle's stability is in question and other injuries are possible. Because breaks usually get more doctor care, they may take longer to heal but they usually are successful and stable.