A fracture is a break in a bone. A fracture rarely includes surgery and is usually treated by immobilizing the bone with a cast or a splint, which allows the broken bones to grow back together. Fractures can occur in any bone in the body and are often the result of high force impact or stress; however fractures may also be a result of medical conditions that weaken the bone.

A sprain is an injury of the ligaments, the rubber band like tissues that connect bones together. When the ligaments are stretched past their normal range of motion, the result can include swelling and severe pain.

A sprain will heal with rest, but a fractured bone must be set to heal.