The Science of Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains involve stretching or tearing of ligaments, usually the lateral ligaments (ATFL, CFL). This damages mechanoreceptors, affecting proprioception. The condition represents a complex injury that affects both structural integrity and neurological function. Lateral ankle sprains occur when the foot rolls inward (inversion), placing excessive stress on the outer ankle ligaments. The anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) is typically injured first, followed by the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) in more severe cases. The injury disrupts the mechanoreceptors within the ligament tissue, which normally provide critical position and movement feedback to the brain. Without proper rehabilitation, 30-70% of individuals develop chronic ankle instability (CAI), characterized by persistent symptoms of pain, swelling, perceived instability, and recurrent sprains for at least one year after the initial injury. This progression is not simply due to structural damage but involves complex changes in neuromuscular control and movement patterns throughout the entire lower extremity.