Syndesmotic Injury Assessment and Management

The video explains the anatomy of the ankle, focusing on the talus, tibia, and fibula, and the ligaments involved in ankle stability. It discusses high ankle sprains, also known as syndesmotic injuries, which occur when the foot is planted, the ankle is dorsiflexed, and the foot rotates outward. The West Point ankle grading system is used to classify the severity of these injuries. Diagnostic tests like the squeeze test and palpation are used to assess injuries. Management involves immobilization and rehabilitation, with a focus on returning to sport. The video emphasizes the complexity of syndesmotic injuries and the importance of professional guidance.

What are the primary motions of the ankle joint?

• Inversion and eversion

• Plantar flexion and dorsiflexion

• Abduction and adduction

• Flexion and extension

Which ligaments are most commonly injured during a lateral ankle sprain?

• Anterior talofibular ligament and calcaneofibular ligament

• Interosseous ligament

• Deltoid ligament

• Posterior inferior tibiofibular ligament

What is another name for a high ankle sprain?

• Achilles tendon injury

• Medial ankle sprain

• Syndesmotic injury

• Lateral ankle sprain

Which grading system is used to classify the severity of syndesmotic injuries?

• Ottawa ankle rules

• West Point ankle grading system

• RICE protocol

• ABC classification

What is the purpose of the squeeze test in assessing ankle injuries?

• To stress the syndesmotic ligaments

• To measure range of motion

• To evaluate muscle strength

• To check for bone fractures

What is the initial management approach for a stable grade 1 syndesmotic injury?

• Surgical intervention

• Non-operative management

• Immediate return to sport

• Use of crutches indefinitely

Which exercise is NOT recommended during the rehabilitation of a syndesmotic injury?

• Heel raises

• Squats

• Dorsiflexion strengthening with a band

• Intentionally pushing into pain

What is the main focus during the initial phase of syndesmotic injury management?

• Immobilization or unloading

• High-intensity training

• Immediate weight-bearing

• Increasing muscle mass

What is a key factor to assess before returning to sport after a syndesmotic injury?

• Full muscle hypertrophy

• Ability to run a marathon

• Symmetrical range of motion

• Complete absence of pain

Why is it important to seek guidance from healthcare professionals for syndesmotic injuries?

• They are easy to self-diagnose

• They require complex rehabilitation

• They heal quickly without intervention

• They are not serious injuries