Reference Search
| Managing ankle injuries: Follow the rules? |
| Source: Reuss BL: Journal of Musculoskeletal Medicine 21(3): 155–164, 2004 |
| Summary: This review of protocols for managing acute ankle injuries discusses the diagnostic tools and describes in detail the physical examination. Photographs of exam, including the “Squeeze” test to rule out sydesmotic injuries are featured. Review of Ottowa ankle rules and grading of injuries is included. Semirigid support (Aircast Air-Stirrup is pictured) is recommended. “Because immobilization and early mobilization with ankle rehabilitation provide equal long-term ankle stability, early mobilization is preferred; it allows for an earlier return to work and activities and provides more comfort to the patient.” The author references four articles that “have shown that functional treatment (early controlled movement) is superior to surgical treatment for grade I, II, and III lateral ankle sprains”. Patient satisfaction is also emphasized as an advantage of a semirigid brace. |