Evaluation of Inversion Ankle Sprains

The approximate incidence of ankle sprains in the general US population is 2% per 1,000 at risk persons. The incidence of foot and ankle injuries is much greater for sports participants. Foot and ankle injuries account for 27% of allinjuries that result in at least one day of missed sports participation in Division 1 collegiate athletes. Most of these injuries effect the lateral ligamentous structures due to inversion trauma. Inappropriate diagnosis and management of these injuries can lead to chronic pain and dysfunction that may limit sports participation as well as recreational activities. It is imperative that clinicians possess strategies to recognize,manage, and prevent complications related to inversion anklesprains.

This course will assist clinicians with prioritizingexamination tests and measures by presenting a tissue specific approach to clinical examination of the foot and ankle. Clinicians will be provided with a systematic examination approach that will allow them to categorize the multiple complications that can present as a result of inversion ankle sprains. A case-based clinical reasoning approach to treatment will provide participants with the ability to clearly communicate findings with patients and colleagues.

Highlights

• Immediately provide a 15-minute systematic examination that includes differential diagnosis for the ankle
• Learn a rapid examination process for assigning patients to effective treatment-basedcategories
• Acquire the most reliable and relevant clinical information with minimal tests and measures as well as special tests
• Use a valid systematic approach to interpreting complex clinical problems
• Communication tools to effectively collaborate with all treatment team members, including referralsources

Target Audience: Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Athletic Trainers