HIGH ANKLE SPRAINS: TREATMENT & RECOVERY
What is a High Ankle Sprain?
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 (FootCareMD). Unlike the typical low ankle sprain where the ankle rolls inward, a high ankle sprain occurs when the ankle is forced to rotate externally. This motion can separate the tibia and fibula at the ankle joint, stretching or tearing the syndesmosis – the ligaments and membrane that bind these bones together. High ankle sprains are notorious for their severity and prolonged recovery time.
High Ankle Sprain Treatment
For an athlete, a high ankle sprain can make every step painful and put a return to competition on hold. Walking, pushing off, and changing direction place stress on the injured ligaments above the ankle. Treatment focuses on protecting those ligaments, managing pain, and restoring the strength and movement needed for your sport.
The right approach depends on the severity of the injury and whether the ankle joint remains stable. Some athletes need a walking boot or limits on weight bearing during early recovery. More severe injuries may require surgery. Your healthcare provider can determine how much protection you need and when to begin progressing your activity.
As recovery progresses, the Ultra CTS can provide support designed specifically for the challenges of a high ankle sprain. It helps unload the ankle to reduce pain when bearing weight and helps control movements that stress the injured ligaments.
How Ultra CTS Supports Recovery
A high ankle sprain affects the ligaments connecting the two lower leg bones just above the ankle. Supporting this area and limiting excessive outward twisting are important parts of protecting the injury as it heals.
The Ultra CTS combines a hinged cuff that supports the lower leg with a soft shell designed to help unload the ankle. Its upright component helps limit excessive outward rotation. Together, these features address both support above the ankle and the discomfort that can occur when standing or walking.
The Ultra CTS provides Protected Movement during recovery—helping protect the injured ankle while allowing controlled movement as your care team approves increased activity. By combining support with unloading to help reduce weight-bearing pain, it can support a guided return to activity or the transition out of a walking boot.
Rehabilitation continues alongside bracing to restore ankle movement, strength, and balance. As you progress, your care team can guide when to introduce running, jumping, and movements specific to your sport.
Have questions about whether Ultra CTS may be appropriate for your injury or stage of recovery? Ask one of our Certified Athletic Trainers for help understanding your support options.
High Ankle Sprain Rehabilitation & Return to Competition
Managing pain is an important step, but returning to competition also requires rebuilding ankle movement, strength, balance, and control. Rehabilitation helps you prepare for the demands of your sport—not just comfortable walking.
Your physical therapist or athletic trainer can guide a progression from basic exercises to running, jumping, landing, and changing direction. The pace depends on your injury and how your ankle responds. Your care team should assess your readiness before you return to full competition.
Transitioning from Ultra CTS to Ultra Zoom
As your recovery progresses and your healthcare provider clears you for full competition, you may be ready to transition from Ultra CTS to the Ultra Zoom hinged ankle brace. Your care team can help determine when that change is appropriate.
The Ultra Zoom continues the Protected Movement approach during practices and games. Its hinged-cuff design provides maximum support while allowing natural up-and-down ankle motion and helping limit excessive side-to-side movement. The cuff also helps limit excessive outward rotation that can stress the ligaments above the ankle, helping protect against future high ankle sprains.
For athletes returning after a high ankle sprain, this transition provides ongoing ankle support as the focus shifts from treatment to the demands of competition. Continue the rehabilitation exercises recommended by your care team to maintain strength, balance, and control.
Support for Each Stage of Recovery
A high ankle sprain can interrupt your season, but understanding your treatment and recovery options gives you a clearer path forward. With appropriate care, rehabilitation, and ankle support, you can work toward returning to the activities that matter to you.
Ultra CTS provides Protected Movement during treatment and recovery. Once you’re cleared for full competition, Ultra Zoom can continue that support during practices and games.
Not sure which brace fits your stage of recovery? Ask one of our Certified Athletic Trainers for help understanding your options.
