Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 3, 2026
09:14
A Mouse Model of Ankle-Subtalar Complex Joint Instability
Published on: October 28, 2022
Acute ankle sprain: is there a best support?
Gabrielle O'connor1, Anthony J Martin
1St James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland. gabbyoco@yahoo.com
Summary
This study found no significant difference in ankle function between Elastoplast, double tubigrip, and no support for acute lateral ankle sprains. Elastoplast showed a trend towards better function and faster return to work.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Acute lateral ankle sprains are the most common sports-related ligamentous injury, accounting for 85% of all sprains.
- Optimal management strategies for these frequent injuries remain debated, with conflicting evidence regarding the role of compression.
- Traditional RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) protocols are still widely used despite evolving evidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of three external support methods for acute lateral ankle sprains.
- To evaluate outcomes including ankle function, pain reduction, and return-to-work timelines.
- To provide evidence-based guidance on the management of lateral ankle sprains.
Main Methods:
- A prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted in an emergency department.
- Adults presenting within 24 hours of a first-time acute lateral ankle sprain were included.
- Outcomes were compared among patients receiving Elastoplast bandaging, double tubigrip, or no external support.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant differences in ankle joint function (Karlsson scale) were observed at 10 or 30 days post-injury among the three groups.
- A trend suggested Elastoplast bandaging offered superior average ankle function compared to double tubigrip and no support.
- Patients treated with Elastoplast returned to work approximately 2 days earlier on average.
Conclusions:
- The study concluded that there is no statistically significant difference in ankle function at 10 or 30-day follow-up between double tubigrip bandage, Elastoplast bandage, and no support.
- While Elastoplast showed a trend towards improved function and earlier return to work, these differences were not statistically significant.
- Further research may be warranted to explore potential subtle benefits of specific bracing methods in lateral ankle sprain management.
Related Concept Videos
01:10Ankle Joint
The ankle is formed by the talocrural joint (crural = leg). It consists of the articulations between the talus bone of the foot and the distal ends of the tibia and fibula of the leg. The superior aspect of the talus bone is square-shaped and has three areas of articulation. The top of the talus articulates with the inferior tibia. This is the portion of the ankle joint that carries the body weight between the leg and foot. The sides of the talus are firmly held in position by the articulations...
01:27Fractures: Bone Repair
Treatment for a fracture is based on the type of break, the bone affected, and the patient's age.
Minor fractures with no bone displacement are treated by immobilizing the fractured bone using a cast or splint. However, in the case of fractures with displaced bones, the broken bones are repositioned before immobilization to ensure successful healing without deformation and loss of function. The realignment of fractured bone ends is performed through a process called reduction. If the procedure...
Minor fractures with no bone displacement are treated by immobilizing the fractured bone using a cast or splint. However, in the case of fractures with displaced bones, the broken bones are repositioned before immobilization to ensure successful healing without deformation and loss of function. The realignment of fractured bone ends is performed through a process called reduction. If the procedure...