Optimisation of the ankle sprain recovery process for junior footballers by computerised dynamometers

Abstract

Abstract. A sprained ankle is one of the most common joint injuries. This traumatic and painful injury is caused by abnormal stress on the capsular ligament complex and occurs secondary to a movement that forces it to stretch beyond its normal range without losing permanent contact between the joint surfaces. In the United States, the incidence of ankle sprain in the general population (between 2002 and 2006) was 2.15 per 1000 person-years, the highest rates being associated with the age of 10 to 19 years. For people aged 15-24, the incidence was considerably higher in men compared to women, while for those over 30, the incidence was higher in women than men. Epidemiological statistics showed that almost half of all ankle sprains occurred during athletic activities. The motivation for choosing this topic is to highlight the benefits of using the Biodex System 4 Pro in the recovery program for junior footballers with grade II ankle sprains. The assessment made by this device provides information on joint mobility and muscle strength; therefore, the programs used in the recovery process can be performed without putting pressure on the joint and within the range and speed parameters set by the physiotherapist (especially passive, isotonic, isometric and isokinetic ones in the eccentric or concentric mode). The study has shown that Biodex is very helpful in the recovery process because it offers the possibility to work in the isokinetic mode, which reduces the functional recovery period and ensures the return to sport in a minimum time.