Ankle Syndesmosis Injuries are also called high ankle sprains as they involve trauma to the ligaments above the ankle joint
Most ankle sprains are lateral ankle sprains. High ankle sprains are relatively uncommon.
Usual mechanism: External rotation injuries
Exam: Tenderness at the syndesmosis and compression of the tib/fib at the mid calf level causing syndesmosis pain (squeeze test)
Median recovery time is almost 4 times as long as a lateral ankle sprain 62days vs. 15days
Emergency department care is similar tto that of other ankle sprains but the added benefit of patient education and advice may improve overall care and follow-up.
