Insight Compass
science and technology /

Can you walk on a syndesmosis injury?

Can you walk on a syndesmosis injury?

The ankle will be painful and difficult to walk on, and there will usually be pain on touch above the ankle joint itself. Pain may be present through to the calf, and it is usually painful or difficult to pull the foot and toes up.

How long does syndesmosis take to heal?

Evidence suggests that syndesmosis sprains typically require 6 to 8 weeks for recovery, but this is variable. Chronic pain, instability, and functional limitations are common after syndesmosis sprains.

Does syndesmosis injury need surgery?

Because of a disrupted, unstable syndesmosis, the tibia and fibula are not held together properly, which makes for a very unstable ankle joint that is prone to chronic disability and arthritis – if not repaired. Thus, in an ankle fracture with an unstable syndesmosis, surgery is typically recommended.

What is a syndesmosis tear?

A high ankle sprain, also called a syndesmotic injury, occurs when there is tearing and damage to the high ankle ligaments. These injuries are much less common than a traditional ankle sprain.

How painful is a syndesmosis?

The buildup of fluid usually isn’t painful, unless it’s due to injury. Swelling is often more apparent in the lower areas of the body because of gravity. Foot, leg, and ankle swelling is most common in older adults. The swelling can occur on both sides of the body or on just one side.

Why is a syndesmosis injury bad?

Untreated, severe syndesmotic injuries can lead to chronic instability and degenerative arthritis. Before your doctor can recommend treatment, they have to fully assess the degree of the syndesmosis injury. It’s important to know whether other ligaments, tendons, and bones are also injured.

How do you treat syndesmosis?

Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) are the first steps following an ankle injury. After that, treatment depends on the specifics of the injury. Recovery time following syndesmosis sprain can take twice as long as recovery from other ankle sprains.