Ankle Injuries: Treatment and Prevention for the Soccer Athlete

Ankle Injuries: Treatment and Prevention for the Soccer Athlete

Ankle injuries are one of the most common injuries in soccer . The lateral (outside) ankle sprain is the most common site of ankle injury. This injury can range from grade I, mild sprains, to grade III, complete ruptures. There are three ligaments of the lateral ankle. These ligaments can be partially or completely involved with an ankle sprain, dictating the severity of ankle sprain.

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The most important point in recovering from an ankle sprain is early management of the injury. This includes medical examination and diagnosis, protection of the injury for healing, and physical therapy for restoration of function, and return to play. Recurring injuries to the ankle are often experienced when management of injury is incomplete. The choice of ankle brace for adequate protection during the return to play phase of an ankle injury is an important consideration. I highly recommend the ASO Ankle Brace.

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Performing balance activities helps to restore the ankle joint's responsiveness to change of position. Position sense of the ankle can be impaired by sustained immobility, swelling and pain. A recommended addition to training the ankle for return to sport and prevention of ankle injuries is the use of the Dynamic Disc Pillow for challenging the joint position sense of the structures about the ankle.

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Check the Mayo Clinic Site