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Abstract
Objectives
Ankle sprains are the most common injury to occur among athletes worldwide. In 2005 an ankle sprain was estimated to cost a total of £317, and that 80% of these injuries cause time off work. Treatment of ankle sprains has been extensively researched; however, the prevention aspect has not been so thoroughly studied. This systematic review aimed to collect and review all available high-quality research investigating the prevention of ankle sprains.
Methods
Research was collected via the Sport Discus, Medline, Cinahl and Pubmed databases. Hull University's Library system was also searched. Inclusion criteria were prepared to identify high-quality research. The search consisted of the following words including Boolean operators: ankle, sprain, ligament, strain, taping, bracing, strapping, orthotics, prevention, and support.
Results
Within the inclusion criteria 26 papers were identified from a possible 3634 to be eligible for this study. The papers identified were allocated to their relevant categories: bracing, taping, or orthotics.
Discussion
Bracing was identified as the best and cheapest intervention to prevent ankle sprains. Ankle taping showed signs of supporting the ankle joint but only for a maximum of 20 minutes. The theory that ankle taping can increase proprioception requires more research. Research on orthotics revealed that they can play an important role in limiting ankle sprains. We conclude that still further research must be carried out to identify the best method to prevent ankle sprains.