A high ankle sprain, known medically as a syndesmotic sprain, involves damage to the ligaments connecting the tibia and the fibula just above the ankle joint. These ligaments form the syndesmosis, a fibrous joint that stabilizes the ankle. This injury typically results from a forceful twisting or rotational motion, often when the foot is planted and the leg turns outward. Taping a high ankle sprain offers temporary stabilization by externally compressing the lower leg bones, which helps approximate the injured syndesmotic ligaments. This technique is not a substitute for a professional medical diagnosis, but it can provide support and comfort until a proper assessment can be made.
Identifying a High Ankle Sprain
Distinguishing a high ankle sprain from a more common lateral ankle sprain is important for effective initial management. A typical lateral ankle sprain affects the ligaments on the outside of the ankle and usually occurs when the foot rolls inward. In contrast, a high ankle sprain involves pain located higher up the leg, specifically above the ankle joint between the tibia and fibula.
The mechanism of injury is often a forceful external rotation of the foot or excessive dorsiflexion, which forces the lower leg bones apart. Pain is often more noticeable when pushing off the foot or during movements that twist the ankle outward. Standard ankle wraps are generally ineffective for this injury because they fail to apply the necessary compression to the syndesmosis above the joint line.
Essential Materials and Skin Preparation
Gathering the correct materials and preparing the skin is essential for effective taping. You will need a roll of pre-wrap, rigid athletic tape, and possibly a roll of elastic adhesive tape for the final, conformable layer. An adhesive spray can be used to help the tape adhere better, and a skin lubricant can protect areas prone to blistering.
Before applying any tape, the skin must be clean, dry, and free of oils or lotions to ensure maximum adhesion. Shaving excessive hair in the area is recommended to prevent irritation when the tape is removed. The pre-wrap should be applied in an even, single layer starting from the mid-foot and extending up to the mid-calf, covering the entire area where the athletic tape will be placed.
Step-by-Step High Ankle Sprain Taping
The technique for a high ankle sprain focuses on applying a “syndesmotic squeeze” to the tibia and fibula. Begin by placing two anchor strips of athletic tape around the leg: one roughly two inches above the top of the ankle joint and a second one about four to five inches higher, near the mid-calf. These anchors provide stable points for the compression strips that will follow.
Next, apply a series of compression strips in a chevron or figure-eight pattern between the two anchors. Starting from the lower anchor on the outside of the leg, pull the tape across the front of the leg with firm tension, aiming to pull the lower leg bones closer together. The strip should spiral slightly upward and anchor to the upper strip on the inside of the leg.
Immediately follow with a second strip, starting on the inside and crossing the front in the opposite direction, pulling with tension to compress the syndesmosis. Repeat this overlapping, alternating pattern, moving progressively up the leg toward the upper anchor to create a strong, supportive lattice. It is important to maintain a consistent, firm tension to stabilize the joint without impeding circulation.
Finalize the wrap by applying locking strips over the upper and lower borders of the compression strips, covering the anchor tape. This secures the compression strips in place and prevents them from unraveling during movement. Optionally, apply a layer of elastic adhesive tape over the entire structure for a comfortable, flexible outer support. Throughout the process, regularly check the color and temperature of the toes to ensure blood flow remains unrestricted.
Duration of Wear and When to Consult a Doctor
The applied tape is a temporary measure and should remain in place for no longer than 24 to 72 hours before being removed and replaced. Effectiveness diminishes as the adhesive loosens and the material stretches, often requiring re-taping to maintain compression. It is important to remove the tape immediately if it becomes wet or excessively uncomfortable.
Certain signs necessitate an immediate consultation with a medical professional, even after successful taping. These include an inability to bear any weight on the injured leg, worsening pain or increasing swelling despite the compression, or signs of compromised circulation, such as numbness, tingling, or a noticeable change in the color or temperature of the toes. A high ankle sprain frequently requires imaging, such as an X-ray or MRI, to accurately assess the extent of the ligament damage and rule out associated bone fractures, a step that self-taping cannot replace.