When people think about ankle sprains, they usually imagine rolling an ankle during a game, run, or hike. But not all sprains are the same. One of the more serious and commonly misunderstood sports injuries is a high ankle sprain.
Unlike a traditional ankle sprain, a high ankle sprain affects the ligaments above the ankle joint and often requires more recovery time and specialized treatment. At Foot & Ankle Care Of Colorado, we help athletes and active individuals diagnose, treat, and recover from high ankle sprains so they can safely return to the activities they enjoy.
What Is A High Ankle Sprain?
A high ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that connect the two lower leg bones—the tibia and fibula—become stretched or torn. These ligaments, called the syndesmotic ligaments, help stabilize the ankle during movement.
This injury differs from a traditional ankle sprain, which typically affects the ligaments on the outside of the ankle.
High ankle sprains are especially common among athletes participating in:
- Football
- Soccer
- Basketball
- Skiing and snowboarding
- Trail running
- Hiking
- Competitive recreation sports
Because these ligaments stabilize rotational movement, twisting injuries are a common cause.
How High Ankle Sprains Happen
High ankle sprains frequently occur during sudden changes in direction or when the foot becomes planted while the leg rotates.
Common mechanisms include:
- Twisting while the foot remains fixed
- Collisions during sports
- Landing awkwardly after a jump
- Sudden pivoting movements
- Falls during skiing or snowboarding
Many patients initially assume they have a standard ankle sprain and continue activity, which may worsen the injury.
Symptoms Of A High Ankle Sprain
High ankle sprains often feel different than typical ankle sprains.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain above the ankle joint
- Difficulty pushing off while walking
- Swelling around the ankle
- Pain with twisting motions
- Tenderness between the lower leg bones
- Feeling unstable during activity
One key difference is that swelling may sometimes appear less dramatic than expected, even when the injury is significant.
Why Early Evaluation Matters
Among common sports injuries, high ankle sprains deserve special attention because they often take longer to heal and can become chronic if ignored.
Without proper treatment, patients may experience:
- Persistent instability
- Reduced athletic performance
- Chronic ankle pain
- Increased risk of repeat injury
- Long-term joint problems
Early diagnosis improves outcomes and helps create a more efficient recovery plan.
Diagnosing High Ankle Sprains At Foot & Ankle Care Of Colorado
At Foot & Ankle Care Of Colorado, we perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the severity of the injury.
This may include:
- Physical examination
- Stability testing
- Evaluation of walking mechanics
- Diagnostic imaging when appropriate
Accurate diagnosis helps determine whether the injury can be treated conservatively or requires more advanced intervention.
High Ankle Sprain Treatment Options
Treatment depends on injury severity, activity level, and long-term goals.
Rest And Activity Modification
Limiting activities that stress the injured ligaments allows healing and prevents further damage.
Immobilization And Bracing
Protective bracing or immobilization may be recommended to stabilize the ankle and reduce strain during recovery.
Physical Therapy
Rehabilitation focuses on:
- Restoring mobility
- Improving balance
- Rebuilding ankle strength
- Returning safely to sport
Proper rehabilitation is one of the most important steps in preventing future sports injuries.
Custom Orthotics
For patients with biomechanical issues or recurring instability, custom orthotics may improve alignment and reduce stress on the ankle.
Advanced Treatment Options For Sports Injuries
In more severe cases, additional treatment strategies or surgical stabilization may be considered to restore long-term ankle function.
Returning To Sports Safely
Returning too quickly is one of the most common reasons high ankle sprains become ongoing problems.
Before returning to activity, patients should demonstrate:
- Pain-free walking
- Full ankle movement
- Improved balance and strength
- Confidence during sport-specific movements
A structured recovery plan helps reduce reinjury risk.
Don’t Let Sports Injuries Keep You On The Sidelines
High ankle sprains can be frustrating and slow to heal—but with the right treatment, recovery is possible.
At Foot & Ankle Care Of Colorado, we help patients recover from sports injuries with individualized treatment plans focused on restoring strength, stability, and confidence.
If you’re dealing with ankle pain after activity or suspect a high ankle sprain, schedule an evaluation and take the first step toward getting back in the game.
