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Identifying Range-of-Motion Deficits and Talocrural Joint Laxity After an Acute Lateral Ankle Sprain
Bethany A Wisthoff1, Carrie L Docherty2, Joseph Glutting1
1University of Delaware, Newark.
Journal of Athletic Training
|April 20, 2021
Summary
Residual symptoms after ankle sprains are common. This study found differences in joint laxity and range of motion over time, varying by sprain severity, impacting long-term recovery.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Ankle sprains frequently lead to persistent symptoms, affecting long-term function.
- Early return to activity doesn't preclude long-term deficits due to ligament quality and motion limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare talocrural joint mechanical laxity and dorsiflexion range of motion (DFROM) after acute lateral ankle sprain (LAS).
- Assess changes at 24-72 hours, 2-4 weeks, and 6 months post-injury.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study involving 55 participants with acute LAS and 53 controls.
- Measured mechanical laxity (talofibular interval, ligament length) and DFROM using specific tests.
- Data analyzed with repeated-measures ANOVA, t tests, and 1-way ANOVA.
Main Results:
- DFROM improved over time across all measurement points (P < .05).
- Grade III LAS showed less DFROM than Grade I at 24-72 hours (P = .004).
- Increased laxity (anterior drawer, talofibular interval) was observed in the LAS group compared to controls at 6 months (P < .001).
Conclusions:
- Significant differences in range of motion and joint laxity exist among LAS grades at various time points.
- These variations suggest distinct clinical recovery patterns following lateral ankle sprains.
