High ankle sprains tend to heal more slowly than common ankle sprains.

Treatment will depend on the extent of the injury.

A more extensive high ankle injury (grade 2 or 3) may require surgical intervention and internal fixation.

A soccer player getting their ankle kicked

Jeannot Olivet / Getty Images

After the ligament has healed, some surgeons remove the screws so the bones can move normally again.

Others recommend leaving the screws in place.

They should be compliant with stretching or other exercises prescribed to keep the ankle strong and stable.

American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society.High ankle sprain (syndesmotic injury).