What is a Syndesmosis Injury?

The syndesmosis is a fibrous joint help together by ligaments. It’s located between the tibia, and fibula and called the tibiofibular joint. The ligaments include: AITFL, PITFL, interosseous ligament and transverse tibiofibular ligament. It’s role its to act as a shock absorber and stabilise the ankle joint. Without the syndesmosis ligament the tibia and fibula would spread apart from one another. The syndesmosis is injured when the foot is planted and the leg rotates. This is commonly seen in sports such as rugby where the foot gets stuck in the tackle in an awkward position. It’s important examine the extent of the injury through an x-ray and MRI.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of a Syndesmosis Injury?

+ Tenderness over the ankle

+ Pain above the ankle joint

+ Pain and inability to walk

+ Pain with rotation of the foot/ankle

+ Pain with a calf raise

+ Unable to fully weight bear on the foot and ankle

What is the Treatment of a Syndesmosis Injury?

Non-surgical: A stable syndesmosis injury will be placed in a cam-boot to help reduce pain and allow initial healing of the ankle. After the boot is removed between 4-6 weeks then Physiotherapy will be commenced to regain the range of motion, strength and proprioception of the ankle. This is important as it reduced the risk of a secondary ankle injury. Expected return to sport varies between 6-12 weeks.

Surgical: A unstable syndesmosis injury will require surgical fixation. The foot and ankle will then be placed in a cast or boot for up to 12 weeks. Expected return to sport varies between 3-6 months.