J Korean Orthop Assoc.  2014 Feb;49(1):1-6. 10.4055/jkoa.2014.49.1.1.

Ankle Sprains: Epidemiology, Anatomy and Injury Mechanism

• Sung KS

• KMID: 2185238
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4055/jkoa.2014.49.1.1

Abstract

Ankle sprain is one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries, nearly half of all ankle sprains occur during athletic activity. With a high incidence, as many as 40% of patients may experience residual discomfort including pain and instability, underscoring the importance of proper treatment and effective strategies for prevention. The stability of the ankle joint is maintained by both bony structure and ligamentous complex. The anterior talofibular ligament is the primary restraint of internal rotation and adduction of the talus with the ankle joint unloaded, while both bony mortise structure and calcaneofibular ligament restrict adduction of the talus with the ankle joint loaded. Plantar flexion and inversion is the most common mechanism of ankle sprains, which lead to injury of the anterior talofibular ligament followed by calcaneofibular ligament. Ligament injuries are classified according to three grades based on the extent of rupture and the severity of clinical features. Associated injuries with lateral ankle sprain include peroneus tendon rupture, osteochondral fracture, deltoid ligament injury, syndesmosis injury, and nerve traction injuries.

Keyword

ankle joint; ankle injuries; ligament injury

MeSH Terms

Ankle Injuries*
Ankle Joint
Ankle*
Epidemiology*
Humans
Incidence
Lateral Ligament, Ankle
Ligaments
Rupture
Sports
Talus
Tendons
Traction

Figure

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  Figure 1 Lateral ligamentous structure of the ankle joint. The fibular origins of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) and calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) are confluent, and the angle made by these two ligaments is approximately 104°. The CFL is not attached to the tip of the lateral malleolous but to the anterior aspect of the distal fibular just below the origin of the ATFL (① lateral malleolus, ② accessory and main bundle of the ATFL, ③ CFL, ④ lateral talocalcaneal ligament).

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