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Ankle sprains are a common occurrence, often leading individuals to seek immediate medical attention. Among these, acute lateral ankle sprains are the most frequent. But what is the best way to treat these injuries? A recent systematic review provides some insights.

Conservative Treatment: The Best First Choice

Conservative treatment is the first line of defense when dealing with severe acute lateral ankle sprains. This approach typically involves a combination of rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), and non–steroidal anti–inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to manage pain and inflammation.

Conservative treatment allows the body to heal damaged ligaments and tissues naturally. This method has been found to provide satisfactory functional outcomes, meaning that patients can regain normal function of their ankle without the need for invasive procedures.

The review underscores the importance of conservative treatment, as it eliminates the risks and costs associated with surgical interventions. These risks can include complications from anesthesia, infection, and the potential for long–term pain or discomfort. The costs of surgery can also be prohibitive for many patients, making conservative treatment a more accessible option.

Bracing/Taping and Rehabilitation Protocols: A Grey Area

While the review strongly advocates for conservative treatment, it also acknowledges a lack of consensus regarding the best external support and rehabilitation protocols for acute lateral ankle sprains.

External support can include devices like braces or ankle supports designed to provide stability and prevent further injury. Rehabilitation protocols, on the other hand, involve exercises and physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility to the ankle.

The review suggests that more research is needed to determine the most effective methods for these aspects of treatment. This is a critical area of study, as the proper support and rehabilitation can significantly impact a patient's recovery time and the likelihood of re–injury.

Summing Up This Scientific Research

Acute lateral ankle sprains are the most common reason people visit the Emergency Department, making it a significant public health concern. Understanding the best treatment methods for these injuries is crucial for providing effective care. By prioritizing conservative treatment, healthcare providers can ensure patients receive the care they need without exposing them to unnecessary risks or costs. This approach not only benefits individual patients but also helps to manage healthcare resources more efficiently.

However, the need for further research into external support and rehabilitation protocols highlights that there is still much to learn in this area. As our understanding of these injuries and their treatment continues to evolve, so will our ability to provide the best possible care for patients.

Conservative Care is Still Best Delivered by a Qualified Physical Therapist

Physical therapists are uniquely qualified to manage and treat acute ankle sprains conservatively due to their extensive knowledge and training in musculoskeletal conditions. They are experts in understanding how the body moves and functions, which is critical in the treatment of ankle sprains.

1. Individualized Treatment Plans: Physical therapists create individualized treatment plans that cater to the patient's specific needs and recovery goals. This personalized approach ensures that the treatment is effective and efficient, leading to quicker recovery times and a lower risk of re–injury.


2. Non–Invasive Approach: Physical therapy offers a non–invasive approach to treatment, which can help avoid the potential risks and complications associated with surgical interventions. This is particularly important for acute ankle sprains, which typically respond well to conservative treatment methods.


3. Pain Management: Physical therapists are skilled in techniques that help manage pain, such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation. These techniques can help reduce pain and inflammation, promoting healing in the affected area.


4. Prevention of Chronic Ankle Instability: Research has shown that physical therapy can help prevent chronic ankle instability, a common complication of ankle sprains. A study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that individuals who received physical therapy after an ankle sprain were less likely to experience recurrent sprains and developed less chronic ankle instability than those who did not receive physical therapy.


5. Education and Self–Management: Physical therapists educate patients about their condition and provide them with strategies to manage their symptoms at home. This includes teaching exercises that can be done at home to improve strength and flexibility and providing advice on preventing future sprains.

Our clinical experts play a crucial role in the conservative management of acute ankle sprains. Our specialization in musculoskeletal conditions, combined with a personalized and non–invasive approach to treatment, makes us the ideal healthcare professionals to handle this common injury.

If you or someone you know is dealing with an acute ankle sprain, don't hesitate to contact us. We can provide the care and guidance you need to get back on your feet and prevent future injuries.

References

• Evidence–based treatment choices for acute lateral ankle sprain: a comprehensive systematic review.


• McKeon PO, Hertel J. Systematic review of postural control and lateral ankle instability, part II: is balance training clinically effective?