If you are an athlete or engage in contact sports such as rugby and football, you have a high risk of experiencing a high ankle sprain. While excruciating, early intervention can relieve your pain and prevent permanent damage. Dr. Allen may have the perfect solution if you are looking for relief from an Alamo Heights high ankle sprain.

Signature symptoms of a high ankle sprain

A high ankle sprain happens when a tear occurs in the ligaments in the syndesmosis (high ankle). The ligaments support the tibia and fibula, facilitating physical activities such as walking and running. When the ligaments are torn or damaged due to accidental twisting or rotating your ankle, you may experience excruciating ankle pain. However, the high ankle sprain is less common than the low ankle sprain.

 A high ankle sprain may result in swelling and tenderness, pain that worsens when standing or walking, trouble putting weight on the injured foot, and pain that travels up your leg. You may also notice that your pain worsens whenever you situate the affected ankle into the exact position it was in when the injury occured.

Diagnostic techniques for high ankle sprains

If you suspect a high ankle sprain, inform your doctor immediately and request an exam. Dr. Allen examines your foot and inquires about your symptoms to determine the cause of the pain. He may also rotate your ankle outwards or squeeze underneath your knee. The location of the pain leads your provider to the location of the sprain. The team may also take X-rays of the injured ankle to rule out fractures and other injuries. If they suspect your injury is more than just an ankle sprain, they may order CT or MRI scans.

Treatment options for high ankle sprains

After diagnosis, Dr. Allen may educate you about the available treatment options before recommending the most effective one. Your treatment significantly depends on your general health, the severity of the injury, and how it affects your life. Your provider may begin your treatment with conservative therapies such as crutches, ice, rest and elevation, platelet-rich plasma injections, activity modification, and physical therapy. If you have a fracture and a severe high ankle sprain, your doctor may use special devices like plates, screws, or pins to hold the affected bones in place and promote healing.

What to expect during recovery

Complete healing may take about six weeks to three months, depending on the severity of the sprain. If there is bone damage, healing may take longer. Dr. Allen combines most treatments with PRP injections to stimulate your body’s natural healing power for faster recovery.

After a stipulated period, you may need to see your physical therapist, who can assess your weight-bearing and walking ability to determine if you are healed. They may ask you to move your leg around or hop on the injured foot to evaluate your recovery. If the fibula and tibia are separated, your provider may suggest corrective surgery. In that case, you will need to wear a boot or cast for about three months and attend physical therapy to gain optimal mobility in the foot.

For more information about high ankle sprains, call Dr. Allen or schedule an appointment online.