High Ankle Sprain


High Ankle Sprain (Syndesmotic Ankle Sprain) Explained

A high ankle sprain is a specific type of ankle injury that affects the ligaments connecting the two lower leg bones—the tibia and fibula—just above the ankle joint. These ligaments form the ankle syndesmosis, which plays a crucial role in stabilizing the ankle during walking, running, and everyday movement.

Unlike a common ankle sprain that affects the outer ankle ligaments, a high ankle sprain occurs above the ankle joint and often requires more time and precision to heal properly.

What Causes a High Ankle Sprain?

High ankle sprains typically happen when the foot is forced upward and outward while planted on the ground. This motion places excessive stress on the stabilizing ligaments between the tibia and fibula.

Common causes include:

  • Sudden twisting or pivoting movements

  • Slips or falls where the foot gets stuck

  • Sports involving cutting or rapid direction changes

  • Contact injuries

  • Repetitive stress from improper foot mechanics

Common Symptoms

High ankle sprains often feel different from a typical ankle sprain.

You may experience:

  • Pain above the ankle joint, between the lower leg bones

  • Pain with walking, especially when pushing off

  • Difficulty bearing weight

  • Swelling or tenderness higher up the ankle

  • A feeling of stiffness or instability

  • Pain when the ankle is rotated outward

Because swelling may be less obvious at first, these injuries are sometimes overlooked or mistaken for a minor sprain.

Why High Ankle Sprains Matter

The ligaments involved in a high ankle sprain help keep the ankle joint properly aligned. When they are injured:

  • Ankle stability is reduced

  • Normal walking mechanics can be altered

  • Compensation can develop in the foot, knee, hip, or lower back

  • Healing may take longer if the injury is not addressed correctly

Left untreated, a high ankle sprain can contribute to chronic ankle pain, recurrent sprains, or long-term joint dysfunction.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Chiropractic care focuses on restoring proper joint motion and alignment, not just reducing symptoms.

With a high ankle sprain, care may involve:

  • Evaluating ankle, foot, and lower leg mechanics

  • Addressing restricted motion between the tibia and fibula

  • Improving ankle and foot joint movement

  • Supporting balanced movement patterns throughout the lower body

  • Reducing stress on surrounding joints during healing

This whole-body approach helps the ankle heal more efficiently while minimizing compensation and re-injury.

When to Get Evaluated

You should seek professional evaluation if:

  • Pain persists beyond a few days

  • Walking continues to feel uncomfortable or unstable

  • You’ve had repeated ankle injuries

  • Your ankle doesn’t feel “right” even after swelling decreases

  • You want to prevent future ankle problems

Early assessment can make a significant difference in recovery and long-term joint health.

The Takeaway

A high ankle sprain is not just a simple ankle injury—it affects the stability and function of your entire lower leg. Proper evaluation and care can help restore movement, protect long-term joint health, and get you back to daily activities with confidence.