A high ankle sprain is a sprain of one or more of the ligaments that hold the tibia and the fibula together at the ankle. Learn more on what causes it, it's symptoms, and treatment.

What is a High Ankle Sprain?

 Also known as a syndesmosis ligament injury, a high ankle sprain is a sprain of one or more of the ligaments that hold the tibia and the fibula together at the ankle. This joint, called the ankle syndesmosis, is made up of ligaments on the front and rear of the ankle as well as in the space between the tibia and fibula.

What Causes High Ankle Sprains?

Part of getting proper treatment for your child in a timely manner involves identifying when an ankle sprain has occurred. High ankle sprains are most often caused by a sharp, outward twisting of the foot and ankle. This can stretch the ligament, causing tears. In severe cases of high ankle sprains, it can result in a rupture of the ligament.

This injury often occurs in athletes active in sports such as:

• Football
• Basketball
• Soccer

How Does a High Ankle Sprain Differ from a Low Ankle Sprain?

While high ankle sprains derive from an outward twisting of the ankle, low ankle sprains are caused by an inward twisting. Low ankle sprains are the most common type of ankle sprain.

Symptoms of a High Ankle Sprain

It’s important to recognize the symptoms of a high ankle sprain so that you may get proper treatment in a timely manner.

Symptoms to watch for in high ankle sprains include:

• Pain when rotating the ankle
• Inability to walk
• Swelling
• Redness
• Bruising

Treatment for High Ankle Sprains

Treatment options for high ankle sprains vary for each patient, but most often include the use of a cast, splint, or brace as well as plenty of rest, cold compresses, elevating the foot, and physical therapy to re-strengthen the ligaments and ankle.

For severe cases of high ankle sprains, such as when the tibia or fibula become displaced, treatment may require surgery.

Get Quality, Immediate Care for High Ankle Sprains at MidAmerica Orthopaedics

Receiving diagnosis and treatment immediately following a high ankle sprain is vitally important to your child’s recovery time and treatment plan. MidAmerica Orthopaedics offers Immediate Care with convenient, extended hours. Save time and money, and avoid hefty medical bills that accompany a trip to the ER.

MidAmerica Orthopaedics’ Pediatric Clinic focuses on orthopaedic conditions of children and young adults ages 0-18. Don’t take a chance with your child’s healing. Find out more about our Pediatric Clinic here.

If you’d like to schedule an appointment, please call us at (708) 237-7200.