The most common of all ankle injuries is the ankle sprain. A sprain occurs when your ankle is forced to move out of its normal position, which can cause one or more of the ankle’s ligaments to stretch or tear.

A high ankle sprain occurs when there is tearing and damage to the large ankle ligaments above the ankle.  This ligament also called the “sydesmotic ligament” joins together the tibia and fibula of the lower leg. This injury is much less common than a traditional ankle sprain.

High ankle sprains occur from rotational injuries, much like ankle fractures. They are common in sports, especially impact sports. With a high ankle sprain there is often a minimum degree of swelling but unfortunately there tends to be longer lasting pain.

The pain that occurs with this type of sprain will usually occur when the ankle is externally rotated or turned outward and will be noticed above the ankle.  This tendency and the fact that the ligaments are above the ankle lead to the term “high ankle sprain.”  Most athletes are diagnosed with these injuries when their ankle sprain takes longer to recover than usual.

For immediate relief of an ankle sprain it is important to follow the R.I.C.E. treatment plan of rest, ice, compression and elevation. This will greatly reduce the acute signs and symptoms of the sprain.  It is important to consult with Dr. Elkhechen for a proper medical evaluation of the injured ankle.  An accurate diagnosis will speed up the recovery time when determining the appropriate plan of care.