[Compression stockings contra ace-bandages in the treatment of acute ankle distorsions. A prospective randomized study].

Sprained ankles are most often treated with ace-bandages. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of compressing antiembolism stocking (T.E.D.) versus the ace-bandage in a prospective randomised trial. Evaluation was based on the duration of pain, swelling, limp and absence from daily routines (job, daily activity and sport). The study included 149 patients. We found no difference between the two treatments, on the basis of 95% confidence interval at the difference between the treatments. On the basis of this trial we cannot recommend one treatment rather than the other, but it must be borne in mind that the ace-bandage is cheaper.