The Orthobullets Podcast Foot & Ankle | High Ankle Sprain & Syndesmosis Injury
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May 10, 2025 Explore the intricate world of high ankle sprains and syndesmosis injuries. Discover the causes and symptoms that make these conditions unique. Learn about the anatomy and biomechanics that play a crucial role in treatment options. The discussion also highlights potential complications, ensuring a thorough understanding of these injuries. Tune in for expert insights that shed light on effective diagnostic methods.
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Mechanism and Diagnosis
- High ankle sprains mostly result from sudden external rotation of the ankle, injuring distal tibiofibular ligaments.
- Clinical tenderness over the syndesmosis and tibia-fibula squeeze test help suspect diagnosis; stress radiographs confirm it.
Syndesmosis Anatomy and Function
- The syndesmosis consists of several ligaments including the AITFL, PITFL, interosseous membrane and ligament, and the inferior transverse ligament.
- Its biomechanical role is maintaining tibia-fibula integrity and resisting axial, rotational, and translational forces.
Clinical Tests for Syndesmosis Injury
- Syndesmosis tenderness is the best predictor for return to play in high ankle sprains.
- The squeeze test, external rotation test, and cotton test help clinically evaluate syndesmosis injury.