Recurrent Ankle Sprain

Excerpt

Ankle sprains are among the most common recurrent injuries of the lower extremity. Up to 40% of ankle sprains go on to develop chronic symptoms, including pain, swelling, instability, and recurrence that persists at least 12 months post-injury. Furthermore, approximately 20% of individuals who sustain acute sprain develop into chronic ankle instability. Ankle sprains are common amongst the general population and athletic population alike. The theory is that the resulting impairment of proprioception predisposes the individual to recurrence; thus, a thorough history and evaluation can direct practitioners when evaluating recurrent ankle instability to decrease the likelihood of further complications.