NorthShore University Health System Primary Care Sports Medicine, University of Chicago, Pritzker School of Medicine; ATC National Athletic Trainers’ Association cjaworski@northshore.org
The authors reported no potential conflict of interest relevant to this article.
The following 4 common MSK injuries are ones that can benefit from a graduated approach to rehabilitation at home.
Lateral ankle sprain
Lateral ankle sprain, usually resulting from an inversion mechanism, is the most common type of acute ankle sprain seen in primary care and sports medicine settings.7-9The injury causes lateral ankle pain and swelling, decreased range of motion and strength, and pain with weight-bearing activities.
Have patients avoid using heat in the acute injury phase because it can increase inflammation due to increased blood flow.
Treatment and rehabilitation after this type of injury are critical to restoring normal function and increasing the likelihood of returning to pre-injury levels of activity.9,10 Goals for an acute ankle sprain include controlling swelling, regaining full range of motion, increasing muscle strength and power, and improving balance.
Phase 1: Immediately following injury, have the patient protect the injured area with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). This will help to decrease swelling and pain. Exercises to regain range of motion, such as stretching and doing ankle “ABCs,” should begin within 48 to 72 hours of the initial injury (TABLE 1).9-11
