You may have noticed that there seem to be runs of certain injuries that pop up and cost your favourite AFL players time on the sidelines.

About 15 years ago, it was osteitis pubis keeping key players out of action.

Since 2020, another term has become increasingly familiar to fans and commentators alike: syndesmosis injury.

So what exactly is the ankle syndesmosis, and why are injuries to this area becoming so common?

The syndesmosis is the fibrous joint that connects the tibia and fibula — the two long bones running from the knee to the ankle.

Located at the front of the ankle, this joint includes a network of strong ligaments and a membrane that holds the bones together, providing crucial stability.

Despite their strength, these structures can be torn or stretched under specific forces, most often when the ankle is twisted outward with another player's weight on the leg.

Unlike the more common lateral ankle sprain, where the foot rolls inward and recovery is often quick, a syndesmosis injury often requires more involved treatment.

Depending on the severity, management may include several weeks in a moon boot or even surgery to stabilise the joint and allow proper healing.

So why does it seem like syndesmosis injuries are suddenly everywhere?

Improved imaging techniques and increased awareness among medical staff are part of the answer.

In years gone by, these injuries were probably treated like a typical strain, only for the athlete to not be able to perform anywhere near their best for many months.

Today, with greater awareness and accuracy in diagnosis and treatment, we are managing these injuries a lot better, and a full recovery can be expected.

Unfortunately, this comes with a longer stint on the sidelines.

Pat Arnold is a director and sports physiotherapist at Echuca Moama Physiotherapy. Appointments with Pat and his colleagues can be made by calling 5480 0860 or booking online at echucamoamaphysio.com.au

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Monday, 21st July 2025

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