Syndesmotic ankle sprains in athletes

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Anatomy

Background:

• Ankle sprains are frequent athletic injuries causing pain and disability.
• Syndesmosis injuries, though common, are historically underdiagnosed compared to lateral ankle sprains.
• Recent increased awareness in sports medicine leads to more frequent diagnoses of syndesmosis injuries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current literature on syndesmosis ankle sprains.
• To discuss anatomy, injury mechanisms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
• To identify controversies and areas for future research in syndesmosis injury management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of syndesmosis ankle sprains.
• Discussion of diagnostic modalities and treatment strategies.
• Analysis of existing evidence and identification of knowledge gaps.

Main Results:

• There is a low level of evidence and limited literature on syndesmosis injuries compared to lateral ankle sprains.
• Current guidelines for assessing severity, imaging, surgical vs. non-surgical treatment, and return-to-play decisions are lacking.
• Increased knowledge is essential for improved prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

Conclusions:

• Syndesmosis ankle sprains require further research and clearer clinical guidelines.
• Improved understanding is crucial for effective management and better outcomes for athletes.
• Addressing diagnostic and treatment controversies will enhance patient care.