Influence of activity level on the outcome of treatment of lateral ankle ligament rupture

Abstract

Background: Few studies of treatment of lateral ankle ligament rupture have given careful consideration to the activity levels of patients. In the present study, we investigated whether a patient's activity level influences the outcome of the treatment of lateral ankle ligament rupture and whether treatment should be determined according to activity level.

Methods: A total of 115 consecutive patients with lateral ankle ligament rupture were treated with short-term cast immobilization followed by functional bracing. We divided preinjury activity levels and activity levels at follow-up into four classes according to the International Knee Documentation Committee standards. Follow-up examination 1 year after injury included clinical assessment (anterior drawer test, range of motion, maximum circumference of the calf, tenderness, swelling), reinjury assessment, and functional evaluation by means of the Karlsson scoring system.

Results: We found significant differences in ankle stability and reinjuries between the four groups classified by their preinjury activity level. The number of patients with ankle instability and reinjury was significantly higher in the high-activity group than in the low-activity groups. We also found significant difference between groups classified by activity level at follow-up with regard to the Karlsson score.

Conclusions: The outcome of treatment of lateral ankle ligament rupture is significantly influenced by the patient activity level, and treatment may need to be determined according to this activity level.