Functional outcome of conservative management of acute soft tissue injury of ankle joint in adults

Abstract

Acute ankle injuries are one the most common musculoskeletal injuries in emergency departments. However, there are still no standardized examination procedures or treatment. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop standardised approach for the diagnosis and treatment of acute ankle injuries. All adult patients with acute ankle sprain without bony injury in OPD or emergency were included in the study and followed for the minimum period of 6 months. All the patients were clinically evaluated for swelling, haematoma discoloration, pain on palpation, the anterior drawer test and talar tilt test on each visit. Patients were treated with short period of protection using brace or below knee slab, followed by early weight-bearing, including exercises and neuromuscular training of the ankle. On follow up time to return to work and sports activity, restriction of ankle motion and recurrence of symptoms were noted. This study supports non surgical treatment for majority of cases with short term immobilisation followed by functional treatment for grade 3 and early mobilisation for grade 1 and 2 ankle sprain.