Ankle Lab

Question 1

Grade 1 Sprain

Answer 1

Onset: Acute
Mechanism: Inversion
Pain: Anterolateral aspect of lateral malleolus
Observation: Swelling on anterolateral aspect of lateral
Palpation: Tendon over ATFL
ROM: Normal, may be tender/painful during AROM and PROM inversion
Stress/Special Tests: Negative (no increased laxity) - talar tilt, anterior drawer, tap/bump test
Neurovascular Findings: Normal

Question 2

Grade II Sprain

Answer 2

Onset: Acute
Mechanism: Inversion
Pain: Tearing and popping sensation on lateral aspect of ankle
Observation: Swelling on anterolateral and inferior aspect of malleolus
Palpation: Painful over ATFL and CFL. Possible tenderness PTFL, deltoid ligament
ROM: Painful and limited, especially AROM and PROM inversion, plantar flexion. Weakness possible on RROM eversion and dorsiflexion
Stress/Special Test: Positive (increased laxity) - talar tilt, anterior drawer. Negative - tap/bump (fracture) test
Neurovascular findings: Normal

Question 3

Management of Acute Ankle Sprains

Answer 3

Compression - manage swelling
Brace for early stability ambulating
Early ROM
Balance
Proprioception
Strengthening traversing muscles and tendons
Reconstruction option for high grades (grade 3) or significant chronic instability

Question 4

Ankle Sprains

Answer 4

Normal
Inversion - Sprained Lateral Ligament
Eversion - Sprained Medial Ligament