Differences in Ankle Sprain Risk Factors, Anterior Talofibular Ligament, Calcaneofibular Ligament and Lower Leg Muscles' Size Among Athletes With and Without Ankle Sprain Injury History: A Retrospective Study
Turkey (Türkiye)60 participantsStarted 2025-05-15
Plain-language summary
This study aims to comprehensively explore the relationship between changes in muscle architecture and connective tissue structure in athletes with ankle sprains and the intrinsic biomechanical risk factors observed in these individuals. The main goal of the research is to compare the risk factors associated with ankle sprains, characteristics of lower extremity muscle architecture, and structural features of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) between athletes with and without a history of ankle sprains. Additionally, the study seeks to identify intrinsic factors that may lead to lateral ankle sprains and to investigate the link between these factors and structural changes related to chronic ankle instability. Overall, the study aims to contribute scientifically to the early detection of sprain risk in athletes and the development of personalised preventative intervention strategies.
The hypotheses of the study are as follows:
Hypothesis 1: In athletes with a history of ankle sprains, the strength of the muscles surrounding the ankle differs from that of their uninjured ankles and ankles of the athletes without a history of sprains.
Hypothesis 2: Athletes with a history of ankle sprains have a different level of proprioception (position sense) compared to athletes without a history of sprains.
Hypothesis 3: Athletes with a history of ankle sprains have different muscle and ligament sizes compared to their uninjured legs and the legs of athletes without a history of sprains.
Hypothesis 4: Dynamic balance differs between athletes with a history of ankle sprains and those without a history of ankle sprains.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 35 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion criteria
. At least 5 years of active participation in any sport.
. Age between 18 and 35.
. A history of at least two clinically diagnosed LAS episodes with inflammatory symptoms like pain and swelling.
. The last sprain occurred at least 3 months before the study start, and the participant has fully returned to their sport.
. No previous surgeries affecting
Exclusion criteria
. Any history of ankle fracture.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.