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AUGUST 3, 2004
Diagnosing High Ankle Sprains


Elusive high ankle sprains usually are not seen in regular ankle x-rays, and may need ultrasound to help make the diagnosis.

High ankle sprains differ from the classic ankle sprain in that there usually is minimal swelling, tenderness, and pain, but it takes longer to heal. Because there usually isn't much swelling, x-rays won't give you the answer. If you have a high ankle sprain, you usually don't feel the pain until you put some extra weight on it.

These ankle sprains occur when you plant down on the inside of the foot and push off, causing a twist in the upper part of the ankle where it meets the mid-calf. Often, it is made worse if someone falls on top of the leg.

If you have a history of ankle sprains, make sure your doctor knows how the injury happened. These injuries usually only occur when you land on the foot in a certain way. Your doctor should also squeeze your mid-calf to see if this causes pain in the ankle.

Early treatment is still the key to getting you back on your feet and performing again in a matter of weeks.



  
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