Not every ankle injury is a simple sprain. Some injuries involve deeper structures that stabilize the entire ankle joint and require more specialized care to heal properly. One of the most commonly overlooked yet important sports injuries is a syndesmosis injury, often referred to as a high ankle sprain.
At Foot & Ankle Care Of Colorado, we diagnose and treat syndesmosis injuries in athletes and active individuals who want to recover safely and return to activity with confidence. Early evaluation and proper treatment can make a major difference in long-term ankle stability and performance.
What Is A Syndesmosis Injury?
A syndesmosis injury occurs when the ligaments connecting the two lower leg bones—the tibia and fibula—become stretched or torn. These ligaments sit just above the ankle joint and work together to maintain stability during walking, running, jumping, and rotational movement.
Unlike a traditional ankle sprain that affects the outer ankle ligaments, a syndesmosis injury involves structures that play a larger role in overall ankle function.
Because of this, syndesmosis injuries often require more recovery time and a more structured treatment plan.
How Syndesmosis Injuries Occur
Syndesmosis injuries frequently occur during athletic activities where the foot becomes planted while the leg rotates.
Common causes include:
- Sudden twisting during sports
- Pivoting while changing direction
- Contact injuries during competition
- Awkward landings after jumping
- Falls while skiing or snowboarding
- Trail running or hiking on uneven terrain
These mechanisms make syndesmosis injuries especially common among active individuals and athletes.
Common Symptoms Of Syndesmosis Injury
Because symptoms can overlap with a traditional ankle sprain, syndesmosis injuries are sometimes overlooked initially.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain above the ankle joint
- Swelling around the ankle
- Difficulty pushing off during walking
- Pain with twisting movements
- Tenderness between the lower leg bones
- Feeling unstable during activity
- Difficulty returning to sport
Many patients notice that normal walking feels uncomfortable and cutting or pivoting movements become particularly painful.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Among common sports injuries, syndesmosis injuries deserve careful attention because untreated instability can lead to chronic problems.
Without appropriate treatment, patients may develop:
- Persistent ankle pain
- Chronic instability
- Reduced athletic performance
- Repeat injuries
- Accelerated joint wear
Getting an accurate diagnosis early can significantly improve recovery outcomes.
Diagnosing Syndesmosis Injuries At Foot & Ankle Care Of Colorado
At Foot & Ankle Care Of Colorado, we begin with a comprehensive evaluation to determine the extent of the injury.
Your assessment may include:
- Physical examination
- Stability and movement testing
- Gait analysis
- Imaging studies when necessary
Understanding the severity of the ligament injury helps guide the most effective treatment plan.
Syndesmosis Injury Treatment Options
Treatment depends on injury severity, activity demands, and recovery goals.
Rest And Activity Modification
Reducing stress on the injured ligaments allows the joint to stabilize and heal properly.
Immobilization And Bracing
Protective bracing or temporary immobilization may help support healing while reducing unnecessary movement.
Physical Therapy
Rehabilitation is often a major part of recovery and focuses on:
- Restoring ankle mobility
- Improving strength
- Rebuilding balance and coordination
- Preparing for return to activity
This step is especially important for preventing future sports injuries.
Custom Orthotics After Sports Injuries
For patients with foot alignment concerns or recurring instability, custom orthotics may improve mechanics and reduce stress on the ankle.
Advanced Treatment Options
More severe syndesmosis injuries may require additional treatment strategies or surgical stabilization to restore ankle alignment and long-term function.
Returning To Activity After A Syndesmosis Injury
Recovery from syndesmosis injuries often takes longer than a typical ankle sprain, but returning too early increases reinjury risk.
Before resuming sports, patients should demonstrate:
- Comfortable walking
- Full ankle motion
- Improved strength and balance
- Confidence with sport-specific movements
Our team works closely with patients to build a safe and realistic return-to-activity plan.
Get Back To What You Love
Sports injuries can be frustrating, especially when they affect mobility and confidence. Fortunately, with proper treatment and rehabilitation, many patients recover successfully and return to activity.
At Foot & Ankle Care Of Colorado, we provide individualized treatment plans for syndesmosis injuries with the goal of restoring strength, stability, and long-term ankle health.
If you are experiencing ankle pain after activity or suspect a high ankle injury, schedule an evaluation today and take the first step toward recovery.
