Ankle Fracture/Sprain
Post Rehab Goals and Objectives:
- Improve Ankle Strength
- Improve Range of Motion
- Improve Ankle Stability
- Improve Functional Stability
- Normal Ambulation
Description
Ankle fracture and sprains are common place in athletics and daily life. The ankle is a very fragile joint. Ankle stability is provided by the small ligaments and muscles that cross the joint. The primary ligamentous stability is provided by the anterior talo-fibular ligament. The peroneals provide lateral ankle stability.
During the early stance phase of the gait cycle, the peroneals and anterior talo-fibular ligament are the primary stabilizers of the ankle. The ankle/foot also moves into pronation to contour to the surface. If the foot is positioned toward supination the possibility of an ankle sprain are significantly increased. If the client twists the ankle, the peroneals and anterior talo-fibular ligament are damaged. If these structures are involved in numerous sprains, ankle stability is compromised. The muscles and ligaments are stretched weakened and unable to control and stabilize the ankle. This is when ankle strengthening and bracing are necessary. Strengthening involves the ankle muscles (primarily peroneals) using both open and closed chain activities.
Management begins with examinations to determine if the ankle is fractured. Some practitioners feel ankle fractures are better in terms of long term outcomes. Ankle sprains which develop into chronic ankle sprains are much worse than basic fractures. Fractures, after healing are more stable than sprains. Physical therapy is recommended for both fractures and sprains to promote function, strength, stability and range of motion.