Previous ankle sprain as a predictor for anterior cruciate ligament injury in male athletes: a descriptive study

Abstract

The literature reveals a relationship between previous injury and re-injury in the lower extremities. The present study aimed to retrospectively describe the frequency of previous ankle sprain (AS) in subjects with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in professional (Pro) and recreational (Rec) athletes. Two hundred male subjects (100 Pro and 100 Rec) who had sustained an ACL tear and undergone ACL reconstruction completed a comprehensive questionnaire about previous ankle sprain, rehabilitation from an ankle sprain, and regular participation in preventive training, such as strength, proprioceptive and plyometric training. The results demonstrated a high frequency of AS injury preceding ACL tears in both Pro (97%) and Rec (98%) subjects (p<0.05). The time between AS and ACL injuries was 68.1±39.7 (±SD) days for Pro and 77.7±44.1 days for Rec. Pro subjects did not follow a regular proprioceptive or eccentric training program. In conclusion, previous AS may represent an important risk factor for ACL injury and further research on this relationship is warranted. Regular participation in a preventive training program, such as proprioceptive or eccentric training, seems to be crucial for avoiding ACL injury.