Grade 2 Lateral Ankle Sprain CAT Flashcards
Which ligaments are implicated with a lateral ankle sprain?
- Anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL)
- Calcaneofibular (CFL)
- Posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL)
Anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL)
- Anterior translation of talus on tibia
- Inversion of talus and calcaneus
- Becomes tight during plantar flexion
Calcaneofibular (CFL)
Resists inversion of talus in midrange of talocrural motion
Posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL)
- Resists posterior translation of talus
- Strongest of lateral ligaments
Of the lateral ankle ligaments, which one is most likely to be damaged by an inversion ankle sprain?
ATFL
Clinical presentation
- Pain or tenderness along lateral aspect of ankle
- Pain will limit strength assessment
- AROM should be used to rule out achilles tendon rupture
- Antalgic gait due to pain
- Ecchymosis and edema may be present
Role of imaging in lateral ankle sprain
Not usually used due to cost
Test for ATFL
Anterior drawer test
Test for CFL
Talar tilt
How to test for possible neurovascular complications with ankle sprain?
Distal pulses and sensory testing
Additional findings commonly associated with lateral ankle sprain
- Proprioceptive deficits
- Possible osteochondral or chondral injuries for talar dome
- Neurovascular disruption
- Achilles tear
Management of grade 2 lateral ankle sprain
- RICE
- Proprioceptive training
- ROM
- Strengthening
- Stability
- Transverse friction massage
Timeline for recovery for ankle sprain
- 2-6 weeks
- Taping or bracing for athletes