Association of Ankle Sprain Frequency With Body Mass and Self-Reported Function: A Pooled Multisite Analysis

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Ankle sprains are a common cause of pain and disability.
• Factors influencing recurrent ankle sprains include body mass and prior injury.
• The relationship between the number of ankle sprains and anthropometric/functional outcomes requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess differences in anthropometric measurements and self-reported function based on the number of ankle sprains.
• To analyze data from a large, pooled dataset to understand these associations.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study design.
• Pooled data from 14 studies (N=412) via the Chronic Ankle Instability Outcomes Network.
• Participants categorized by number of self-reported ankle sprains (1, >1, 1, 2, 3, 4, ≥5).

Main Results:

• Multiple ankle sprains (>1) correlated with higher body mass and body mass index (BMI).
• Individuals with multiple sprains reported lower scores on the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) for both ADLs and sports, and lower Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) scores.
• Specific comparisons revealed lower weight and BMI in single-sprain groups compared to those with ≥5 or 2 sprains, respectively.

Conclusions:

• A history of multiple ankle sprains is associated with increased body mass and self-reported functional disability.
• These findings suggest an interplay between body composition and ankle instability.
• Clinicians should consider patient education on physical activity, diet, and function optimization for comprehensive care.