Syndesmosis Injury

A Comprehensive Guide to Treatment and Recovery

Introduction

Syndesmosis injuries, commonly known as high ankle sprains, involve the syndesmotic ligaments connecting the tibia and fibula. These injuries are complex and require a nuanced approach to treatment and recovery. This guide offers an in-depth look at the role of physiotherapy and surgeons in managing these injuries, including both non-surgical and surgical options.

Understanding Syndesmosis Injuries

These injuries typically occur from twisting movements or ankle pressure. They’re more severe than standard ankle sprains and require a specific treatment approach. Athletes, especially in contact sports, are at a higher risk.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Syndesmosis injuries, characterised by damage to the ligaments connecting the tibia and fibula, present distinct symptoms that set them apart from regular ankle sprains. Understanding these symptoms is key to early and accurate diagnosis, which is crucial for effective treatment.

Symptoms of a Syndesmosis Injury

The primary indicators of a syndesmosis injury include:

1. Pain: This is often concentrated above the ankle, specifically in the area between the tibia and fibula. The pain can range from sharp during specific movements to a constant dull ache.
2. Swelling: Unlike typical ankle sprains, swelling from a syndesmosis injury often extends upwards along the leg, rather than being confined to the ankle.
3. Instability: The ankle may feel unstable or weak, making it difficult to perform regular activities.
4. Weight-Bearing Difficulty: One of the most telling signs is the inability to bear weight on the affected leg. This symptom is less common in standard ankle sprains and points towards a more severe syndesmosis injury.

Diagnosis of a Syndesmosis Injury

Accurately diagnosing a syndesmosis injury involves a combination of clinical assessment and imaging:

1. Clinical Assessment: Physiotherapists or healthcare professionals will conduct a thorough physical examination. They will look for specific points of tenderness and assess the range of motion, stability, and strength of the ankle.
2. Imaging Tests:
   • X-rays: These are typically the first line of imaging used to rule out fractures and to assess the space between the tibia and fibula.
   • MRI Scans: An MRI provides a more detailed view of the soft tissues, including the ligaments, and is crucial for diagnosing the extent of the injury.
   • CT Scans: Occasionally used when more detail is needed about the bone alignment and spacing in the injured area.

Differentiating from Regular Ankle Sprains

It’s vital to distinguish a syndesmosis injury from a regular ankle sprain. While both injuries involve ligaments around the ankle, a syndesmosis injury affects a specific group of ligaments higher up the ankle and leg. It requires a different treatment approach. The severity, location of pain, and the degree of instability are key factors in differentiating these injuries.

In summary, recognising the symptoms and obtaining an accurate diagnosis of a syndesmosis injury are crucial steps in the journey towards effective treatment and recovery. Early intervention by a qualified healthcare professional ensures the best outcomes.

Surgical Consideration

In certain cases, especially when dealing with severe or unstable syndesmosis injuries, surgical intervention might be necessary. The primary goal of this surgery is to realign and stabilise the injured ligaments, allowing them to heal correctly. Post-operative physiotherapy plays a pivotal role in the rehabilitation process. It begins with a focus on reducing swelling and improving joint mobility, and gradually progresses to strength and functional training.

Immediate Care & Professional Assessment

Immediate Care: Initially, treatment involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Immobilisation, often with a moon boot, is generally required.

Orthopaedic Assessment: In instances of syndesmosis instability, surgical stabilisation might be promptly needed. An orthopaedic evaluation is crucial for determining the necessity of surgery. If surgical fixation is required, a comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation plan is essential.

Treatment and Rehabilitation

Protection: Syndesmosis injuries are significant and always necessitate a period of protection.

Mobility Enhancement: Gentle exercises and massage are introduced once the initial swelling subsides, to aid in improving joint mobility.

Strengthening Muscles: Resistance-loaded exercises are gradually incorporated to rebuild muscle strength as recovery advances.

Normalising Foot Biomechanics: Addressing biomechanical issues, whether through orthotics or specific exercises, is critical for long-term recovery.

Restoring Function: The rehabilitation focuses on balance, proprioception, and agility to mitigate the risk of future injuries.

Returning to Sport: Tailored training programs are developed to ensure a safe and effective return to sporting activities.

Potential Treatment Time Frames

The recovery period following a syndesmosis injury depends on its severity:

• Grade I injuries typically involve minimal swelling, allowing the patient to walk pain-free, often requiring a boot for 1-2 weeks, followed by a brace for another 2 weeks. The expected return to sport can be within 3-5 weeks.
• Grade II injuries are more severe, with significant ligament disruption and inability to weight bear. Treatment involves immobilisation in a boot for about 6 weeks, followed by 6-12 weeks of functional rehabilitation. The transition may include using a brace.
• Grade III injuries, representing full ruptures often associated with fractures or dislocations, require the longest recovery time. These cases often involve surgical intervention, with recovery times ranging from 3-6 months.

After surgery, patients may be immobilised in a splint for the initial 10-14 days, followed by a non-weightbearing period of 6-8 weeks. Swelling and stiffness can persist for several months post-surgery, making physical therapy a necessary part of the recovery process.

Each case of syndesmosis injury is unique, and the specific recovery timeline can vary based on individual circumstances and the severity of the injury. It’s essential to follow the guidance of healthcare professionals for optimal recovery outcomes.

Prevention and Long-Term Care

Preventive measures, including strength training and proprioceptive exercises, are vital. Untreated, these injuries can lead to chronic ankle instability and arthritis.

What to Do?

If you suspect a syndesmosis injury, it’s essential to consult a physiotherapist or doctor for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. An Orthopaedic surgeon opinion is typically recommended.

Conclusion

Syndesmosis injuries are complex but manageable with the right care. Professional physiotherapy, whether post-surgery or as a standalone treatment, is essential for a full recovery. Trust in the expertise of physiotherapists to guide you through your recovery journey.

Related Articles

1. High Ankle Sprain
2. Sprained Ankle
3. Ankle Fractures
4. Common Ankle Injuries
5. Ankle Tendinopathies
6. Ankle Arthritis