[Ligament injuries of the ankle--what happens later? Non-surgical treatment is effective in 80-90 per cent of cases].

Ligament injuries of the ankle joint are the most common sports-related injuries. In more than 90 per cent of all cases, it is a question of lateral ligament injury. The recommended acute treatment is always non-surgical, with range of motion training, followed by strengthening and co-ordination exercises. Approximately 80-90 per cent of all ligament injury patients regain normal ankle function after this form of treatment. Early active treatment can reduce time off from sports and the duration of sick leave. Residual problems, mainly pain or recurrent or chronic instability are seen in approximately 10-20 per cent of cases. In cases of chronic instability, ligament reconstruction is recommended. In patients with anterior or anterolateral ankle pain, arthroscopic resection of bone spurs or loose bodies may be beneficial.