Program
Athletic Training Leadership M.A.
Year Approved
2020
First Advisor
Osgood, Chad
Abstract
Background: Ankle sprains are a common injury among the high school-aged athletic population. With recurrent ankle sprains leading to chronic ankle instability (CAI), additional research is needed to determine the efficacy of non-surgical interventions for the high school-aged athletic population. Purpose: The purpose of this critical review of literature is to determine the efficacy of proprioception training and/or ankle bracing in the treatment of ankle sprains and the prevention of CAI. Methods/Results: 20 research articles were selected for review. The included topics are proprioception training and the use of an ankle bracing in regard to the non-surgical treatment of ankle sprains and CAI. The literature indicates results that support the use of a proprioception training program and the use of an ankle brace/tape in combination for the prevention of recurrent ankle sprains and the development of CAI. Conclusion: A review of the literature indicates the use of proprioception training and ankle bracing are both effective in lessening the incidence of ankle sprains and CAI. While there is adequate research in each of these interventions, more research is needed to include high school-aged athletes as well as specificity in proprioception programs and ankle bracing/taping. Research supports the continued use of proprioception training and ankle bracing or taping following an ankle sprain to lessen the incidence of recurrent ankle sprains and CAI. Implications for Athletic Training: Athletic trainers in the secondary setting can support the use of quality prevention measures that will affect the lives of student-athletes. Evidence-based practice can be demonstrated by utilizing an ankle brace as an effective prevention measure following an ankle sprain and implementing a proprioception training program in the reduction of ankle sprains and the development of CAI.
Degree Name
Athletic Training Leadership M.A.
Document Type
Masterʼs thesis
Recommended Citation
Pelzer, K. Z. (2020). The Efficacy of Non-surgical Interventions in the Treatment and Prevention of Ankle Sprains and Instability: A Review of the Literature [Masterʼs thesis, Bethel University]. Spark Repository. https://spark.bethel.edu/etd/509
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