How Do Doctors Diagnose a High Ankle Sprain?
How Do Doctors Diagnose a High Ankle Sprain?
What's This About?
Diagnosing a high ankle sprain can be tricky, but with the right tests, doctors can accurately pinpoint the problem.
Contents
- Physical Examination
- Imaging Techniques
- Advanced Diagnostic Tools
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.
FAQs
What is the first step in diagnosis?
A physical examination by a doctor.
Why are MRIs used?
They are the best for visualizing ligament damage.
Can X-rays show a high ankle sprain?
They rule out fractures but are less effective for sprains.
What is the squeeze test?
A test to reproduce pain at the syndesmosis.
The Bottom Line
Accurate diagnosis of a high ankle sprain is crucial for effective treatment.
Additional 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.