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A high ankle sprain, also known as a syndesmotic sprain, involves injury to the ligaments connecting the tibia and fibula above the ankle joint. Unlike common ankle sprains affecting the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle, high ankle sprains result from a twisting or rotational force, often occurring during sports involving sudden changes in direction. Symptoms include pain above the ankle, swelling, bruising, and difficulty in bearing weight. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans to assess the extent of ligament damage and to ensure there are no associated fractures. Treatment typically starts with rest, compression, and elevation. Severe cases may require immobilization with a cast or boot and, in some instances, surgery to repair torn ligaments. Recovery can be longer than a typical ankle sprain, ranging from several weeks to a few months, depending on the severity and treatment approach. If you believe you may have endured a high ankle sprain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Institue. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. George, Hurricane, and Cedar City, UT and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Children's feet are a marvel of growth and transformation, evolving from soft cartilage to fully ossified bones by around 18 years of age. In those first few delicate months, the right footwear is extremely important. Ill-fitting shoes can distort a child’s developing feet, impacting their comfort and health. Socks and shoes should never be tight but should allow room for natural growth and movement. As a child’s nerve endings develop, they may not feel discomfort from tight footwear, emphasizing the importance of proper fit and comfort checks. Each child's feet are unique, so hand-me-down shoes might not be suitable. Trim toenails straight across to prevent painful ingrown nails. Prioritizing your child’s foot health now sets a foundation for their active future. For expert guidance on nurturing your child's feet, it’s suggested you contact a podiatrist to monitor their growth stage and needs.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Institue. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. George, Hurricane, and Cedar City, UT and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Running is a popular form of exercise that can lead to various foot and ankle injuries. Ankle sprains are common and occur when ligaments are stretched or torn due to sudden twists or turns. Achilles tendinopathy, characterized by pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon, often results from overuse or improper training techniques. Additionally, plantar fasciitis causes pain in the heel and underside of the foot, typically due to inflammation of the plantar fascia from repetitive strain. These injuries can sideline runners, affect their performance, and require proper management for recovery. Prevention strategies include adequate warm-ups, gradual increases in training intensity, and wearing supportive footwear. If you have encountered a foot or ankle injury while running it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat your condition.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Institue. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. George, Hurricane, and Cedar City, UT and Mesquite, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.