High Ankle Sprains
Most people are familiar with a typical ankle sprain, but a high ankle sprain is a different injury altogether. High ankle sprains are often more severe, require a longer recovery period, and may need a different management approach. If you suspect you have a high ankle sprain, it is important to have it assessed as soon as possible.
What Is a High Ankle Sprain?
A high ankle sprain, also known as a syndesmosis injury, involves damage to the ligaments that connect the two bones of the lower leg (the tibia and fibula) just above the ankle. These ligaments help stabilise the ankle by holding the bones together and preventing separation.
High ankle sprains commonly occur when the foot is forced upwards and outwards, known as dorsiflexion and external rotation. This can happen during activities such as changing direction while running, landing awkwardly, or being tackled during sport.
What Are the Symptoms?
Symptoms of a high ankle sprain can include:
- Pain at the front or above the ankle joint
- Pain when walking, running, or changing direction
- Pain when the foot is bent upwards, such as when climbing stairs or squatting
- Difficulty weight-bearing through the affected leg
- Swelling, although this is often less obvious than with a traditional ankle sprain
Because the symptoms can be similar to other ankle injuries, an accurate assessment is important.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Your physiotherapist will perform a thorough assessment of your ankle, including specific tests to determine whether a syndesmosis injury may be present.
If a high ankle sprain is suspected, imaging may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the injury.
Why Is Early Assessment Important?
High ankle sprains are managed differently from traditional lateral ankle sprains. Continuing to play sport or exercise without an accurate diagnosis can delay healing and potentially worsen the injury.
Recovery times are typically longer and can range from several weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the injury. Early diagnosis allows for appropriate treatment, rehabilitation, and guidance on when it is safe to return to activity.
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Physiotherapy plays an important role in the recovery of a high ankle sprain. Treatment may include:
- Reducing pain and swelling
- Restoring ankle mobility and strength
- Improving balance and stability
- Gradually returning to sport and physical activity
A tailored rehabilitation program can help ensure the best possible recovery and reduce the risk of re-injury.
When Should You Seek Help?
If you have ankle pain following an injury, particularly if the pain is located at the front of the ankle or you are struggling to walk, you should have the injury assessed by one of our physiotherapists at North Balwyn Physiotherapy Clinic.
📞 Call North Balwyn Physiotherapy on 9859 5585
or
📅 Book an appointment online with one of our experienced physiotherapists.