Contents
How Do Doctors Diagnose a High Ankle Sprain?
Published: Feb 24, 2024
Diagnosing a high ankle sprain can be tricky, but with the right tests, doctors can accurately pinpoint the problem.
Physical Examination
Doctors begin with a physical examination, checking for pain, swelling, and the ability to bear weight. Special tests like the squeeze test and dorsiflexion-external rotation test help identify ligament injuries.
Imaging Techniques
If a high ankle sprain is suspected, X-rays are often the first imaging test to rule out fractures. MRI is the gold standard for diagnosing ligament damage and determining the severity of the sprain.
Advanced Diagnostic Tools
Ultrasound can be used to visualize ligament injuries, offering a real-time assessment. CT scans may be used when MRI is unavailable, though they are less effective for soft tissue injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
A physical examination by a doctor.
They are the best for visualizing ligament damage.
They rule out fractures but are less effective for sprains.
A test to reproduce pain at the syndesmosis.
The Bottom Line
Accurate diagnosis of a high ankle sprain is crucial for effective treatment.
References
- Baltes TPA, Al Sayrafi O, Arnáiz J, et al. Acute clinical evaluation for syndesmosis injury has high diagnostic value. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2022; 30:3871.
- Vogl TJ, Hochmuth K, Diebold T, et al. Magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of acute injured distal tibiofibular syndesmosis. Invest Radiol 1997; 32:401.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?