Best Practice Case Studies-High Ankle Sprain

Pdf Summary

A high ankle sprain, or syndesmosis sprain, occurs when the ligaments holding the tibia and fibula together at the ankle are injured, typically due to forceful outward rotation of the foot. It is termed 'high' because the injury occurs above the more common site of an ankle sprain. Collision sports athletes, such as those in football, ice hockey, and rugby, are at higher risk, especially if they have a history of the injury.<br /><br />Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising at the front of the ankle joint, and difficulty in bearing weight on the injured leg. A sports medicine physician will assess these symptoms and may conduct an examination of the lower leg, possibly utilizing x-rays to check for fractures or ensure normal joint shape.<br /><br />Treatment of a high ankle sprain involves protection, icing, and anti-inflammatory medications, with severity dictating whether crutches or bracing is needed. Recovery is slower than for typical ankle sprains, with progressive exercises recommended to restore movement, strength, and balance. Severe cases may require surgery.<br /><br />Preventive measures focus on exercises that strengthen the ankle muscles and enhance muscle control to resist injury forces. Ankle support braces can also benefit those with previous high ankle sprains. Return to play is advised once the athlete can safely perform sport-specific activities.<br /><br />AMSSM, a multidisciplinary organization of sports medicine physicians, provides education and advocacy for athlete care and offers resources for finding local sports medicine specialists. This summary was developed using information from AMSSM member authors and affiliated resources.

Meta Tag

Edition 3rd Edition

Related Case 3rd Edition, Case 02

Topic Ankle

Keywords

3rd Edition, Case 02

3rd Edition

Ankle

high ankle sprain

syndesmosis sprain

ligament injury

collision sports

sports medicine

ankle support

AMSSM

preventive exercises

ankle recovery

athlete care