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ANKLE INJURY
High Ankle Sprain Physiotherapy in Richmond, BC
See below how Richmond Physiotherapist can help you
High Ankle Sprain (Syndesmosis Injury): Causes, Symptoms, and Rehabilitation
A high ankle sprain, also known as a syndesmosis injury, affects the ligaments that connect the two lower leg bones (tibia and fibula) above the ankle.
Unlike a typical ankle sprain, which affects the outer ankle ligaments, a high ankle sprain involves deeper structures and often requires a longer recovery time.
These injuries are common in sports that involve twisting, cutting, or contact, such as football, soccer, and hockey.
At Richmond Physiotherapist, we provide physiotherapy treatment for high ankle sprains in Richmond focused on restoring stability, improving mobility, and guiding a safe return to activity.
What Causes a High Ankle Sprain?
High ankle sprains occur when the foot is forced outward while the leg rotates inward.
Common causes include:
- twisting injuries with the foot planted
- contact during sports
- sudden changes in direction
- awkward landings
- high-impact collisions
These movements place stress on the syndesmosis ligaments above the ankle.
Symptoms of a High Ankle Sprain
Symptoms are typically felt above the ankle joint.
Common symptoms include:
- pain above the ankle
- pain with walking or weight-bearing
- difficulty pushing off the foot
- swelling (may be less than a typical sprain)
- pain with twisting or rotation
- feeling of instability
Symptoms often worsen with activities that involve rotation.
How Physiotherapy Helps High Ankle Sprains
Physiotherapy is important due to the longer recovery time and complexity of these injuries.
During your physiotherapy assessment at Richmond Physiotherapist, we evaluate:
- ligament stability
- ankle and lower leg mobility
- pain with weight-bearing
- strength of surrounding muscles
- functional movement
This allows us to guide a safe and structured rehab plan.
Treatments for High Ankle Sprains
Recovery is typically structured in phases:
Acute Phase
- reduce pain and inflammation
- protect the ankle
- limit weight-bearing if needed
Mobility Phase
- restore ankle movement
- reduce stiffness
Strength Phase
- improve strength and stability
- rebuild control
Return to Activity
- gradual return to sport
- ensure ankle can tolerate rotation and load
Treatment may include:
Exercise Rehabilitation
Strengthening and stability exercises.
Manual Therapy
Improving joint mobility and reducing stiffness.
Progressive Weight-Bearing
Gradual loading of the ankle.
Balance & Proprioception Training
Improving control and stability.
Return-to-Sport Progression
Gradual reintroduction to dynamic movements.
When to See a Physiotherapist
You should consider physiotherapy if:
- pain persists above the ankle
- walking or pushing off is painful
- symptoms are not improving
- instability is present
- returning to sport safely is a goal
Proper rehab is essential to avoid long-term issues.
Book High Ankle Sprain Physiotherapy in Richmond
If you are dealing with a high ankle sprain or syndesmosis injury, physiotherapy can help guide your recovery.
Richmond Physiotherapist provides structured rehabilitation to help you restore mobility, improve stability, and return to activity safely.
Book your physiotherapy appointment today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a high ankle sprain different from a regular one?
A regular sprain hits the ligaments on the outside of your ankle. A high ankle sprain hits the syndesmosis, the connective tissue between your tibia and fibula higher up. It takes longer to heal and it’s less forgiving if you rush back.
Why does my high ankle sprain take so long to heal?
The syndesmosis doesn’t get great blood supply, and every step spreads those two bones apart slightly. It often needs a period in a boot or non-weight-bearing. Most take 6 to 12 weeks, not the 2 to 3 you’d expect from a regular sprain.
Do I need surgery for a high ankle sprain?
Most don’t. Surgery is for cases where the tibia and fibula are unstable or separated on imaging. If it’s stable, we manage it conservatively with a boot then progressive rehab. I’ll refer you for imaging if I suspect instability.
Can I run on it if it only hurts a little?
No. A high ankle sprain that feels okay can still be unstable. Running too early risks turning a stable injury into one that needs surgery. We clear you based on specific tests, not just pain level.
Book an appointment
Your recovery starts with one visit.
Every session is 1-on-1, built around your body and your goals. We bill your insurance directly, so you can focus on getting better.