Syndesmosis Injury

The AFL season is well and truly underway, with an interesting season unfolding before us in 2022. With the return of AFL we sadly see the return of the dreaded Syndesmosis injury (aka high ankle sprain), sidelining our favourite players for extended periods of time. In the 2022 season alone, there has already been 4 reported syndesmosis injuries – all of which have required surgery and a stint of around 8 weeks on the injury list.

What is Ankle Syndesmosis?
A syndesmotic, or ‘high’ ankle sprain is one that involves the ligaments binding the tibia and fibula. High ankle sprains are more serious injuries than standard rolled ankles and require more assessment and management, sometimes even surgery.

Injuries to the syndesmosis are often associated with lateral ankle injury; however, they usually lead to more pain, swelling and activity limitations.

What are the common symptoms?

  • Loss of movement
  • Difficulty with weight bearing
  • Swelling
  • Tenderness

How can you help the pain?
Immediately after injury it is important to follow the RICER protocol. This means Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate and Refer (see a medical professional). Early intervention provides the best opportunity for a shorter rehab time, so make sure you get your ankle assessed by one of our experienced therapists as soon as possible. Your therapist will have multiple clinical tests to check your ankle and to help best decide your course of rehabilitation. Should your therapist think imaging is required, they are able to refer for this including MRI’s. A combination of hands on treatment and exercises may be used to get you back on the field! 

To book an appointment you can call our friendly team on 9578 6588 or click the button below.