[Weak ankles..]

Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd. 2011;155(33):A3507.
[Article in Dutch]

Abstract

A new multidisciplinary guideline has been created to address the high incidence of acute inversion trauma of the ankle and the high number of patients with persistent symptoms and recurrence. Although the guideline's aim is to decrease the number of persistent symptoms and recurrence, risk- analysis of these post-traumatic symptoms is lacking. Treatment is the same for all athletes: anyone who sustains an inversion trauma needs a semi-rigid brace and exercise therapy. It is remarkable that there is almost no evidence to support this and other recommendations. The research studies referred to in the articles are of moderate quality; good RCTs are missing. Based on this guideline, therefore, doctors, physiotherapists and patients are basically expected to do a lot of hoping that weak ankles will be prevented. This guideline makes it clear that there is great deal of good research needed in this branch of medicine. Given the target group, healthy athletes without a lot of co-morbidity, it would seem that this were possible.

Publication types

  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Ankle Injuries / diagnosis*
  • Ankle Injuries / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic*