PHYSICAL THERAPY AFTER THE FIRST ANKLE SPRAIN IS CRITICAL

“Physical therapy after the first ankle sprain is critical,” said Robert Clemency, DPM, a podiatrist with Community Care Network in Schererville and Munster. “What therapy will do, it prevents re-occurrence by increasing strength about the joint as well as increasing or re-establishing some of those proprioceptive channels (nerves which tell the brain the posture of the joint) that are disrupted in the initial injury. So therapy is a means of preventing re-injury whether you are an athlete or a laborer. It’s critical in keeping the rate of re-occurrence low and having a better functional outcome after the first sprain.”

 

Dr. Robert Clemency

 

Nonetheless, many primary care providers are apparently reluctant to refer their patients with ankle sprains to physical therapy. According to research cited in the Journal of Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy, “Of patients who do seek care, only 6.8% to 11.0% are referred to a rehabilitation specialist within 30 days of the injury.”

 

Source: John Doherty, Northwest Indiana Times [5/1/21]

Courtesy of Barry Block, editor of PM News