Ankle Sprain and Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability: Optimizing Conservative Treatment

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Physical Therapy

Background:

• Ankle sprains are common injuries that can lead to chronic instability if not managed properly.
• Current management strategies aim to restore function and prevent long-term complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline an individualized, conservative management protocol for ankle sprains.
• To emphasize the importance of a phased approach to rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• Initial phase: pain, swelling, and inflammation management; regaining pain-free range of motion.
• Intermediate phase: joint immobilization (severe cases), muscle strengthening, balance training, and proprioception exercises.
• Late phase: gradual return to sports-specific activities.

Main Results:

• A structured, progressive rehabilitation program can effectively manage ankle sprains.
• Individualized treatment optimizes outcomes and reduces the risk of chronic ankle instability.

Conclusions:

• Conservative management, including a phased rehabilitation protocol, should be the primary treatment for ankle sprains.
• Surgical intervention should be considered only after conservative measures have been exhausted.