CLINICAL PROFILE AND DETERMINANTS OF CHRONIC ANKLE INSTABILITY FOLLOWING ANKLE SPRAINS IN YOUNG ADULTS: A HOSPITAL-BASED CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY FROM NORTH INDIA
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Keywords
Ankle sprain; Chronic ankle instability; Young adults; Ligament injury; Physiotherapy; Rehabilitation; India
Abstract
Background: Ankle sprains are among the most common musculoskeletal injuries in young adults and frequently lead to chronic ankle instability (CAI), resulting in long-term functional limitations. Despite their high prevalence, limited data exist regarding the clinical profile and determinants of CAI in the Indian population.
Objectives: To evaluate the clinical characteristics of ankle sprains and determine the prevalence and associated factors of chronic ankle instability among young adults attending a tertiary care hospital in North India.
Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2021 to August 2021 among 80 participants aged 18–35 years with a history of ankle sprain. Data were collected using a structured proforma, including demographic details, injury characteristics, and treatment history. Clinical examination and functional assessment using a validated instability scoring tool were performed. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 20.0. Associations between variables were analyzed using Chi-square and t-tests, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results: The majority of participants were males (65%) and belonged to the 18–25-year age group. Inversion injury was the most common mechanism (72.5%). Chronic ankle instability was present in 40% of participants. Recurrent sprains (p = 0.002) and lack of physiotherapy (p = 0.04) were significantly associated with CAI. Clinical examination revealed ligamentous laxity and reduced range of motion in a substantial proportion of affected individuals. Functional assessment scores correlated with clinical findings of instability.
Conclusion: Chronic ankle instability is a common sequela of ankle sprains among young adults. Recurrent injuries and inadequate rehabilitation are key contributing factors. Emphasis on early management and structured physiotherapy is essential to prevent long-term disability.
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Dr Rajeev Kumar
Associate Professor, Department of Orthopaedics, Teerthanker Mahaveer Medical College, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Dr. Amar Kumar
Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopaedics, Netaji Subhash Medical College, Bihta, Patna, Bihar, India.
Dr Dhruv Kumar
Assistant Professor, Department of Orthopaedics, Netaji Subhash Medical College, Bihta, Patna, Bihar, India.
