What is the RICE method for treating ankle sprains. How effective is Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation in managing acute ankle injuries. What does scientific evidence say about RICE therapy for ankle sprains.

Understanding Ankle Sprains: Prevalence and Impact

Ankle sprains are among the most common musculoskeletal injuries, affecting individuals across various age groups and activity levels. These injuries occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle joint are stretched or torn, often due to sudden twisting or rolling motions.

Studies have shown that ankle sprains account for a significant portion of sports-related injuries. For instance:

• In indoor soccer, ankle sprains represent a substantial percentage of total injuries
• General population studies indicate a high incidence of ankle sprains in daily activities

The impact of ankle sprains extends beyond immediate pain and discomfort. Without proper treatment, these injuries can lead to chronic instability, reduced function, and increased risk of re-injury. This underscores the importance of effective management strategies, such as the RICE method.

The RICE Method: A Closer Look at Each Component

The RICE method, standing for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation, has been a cornerstone in the initial management of acute ankle sprains. Let’s examine each component in detail:

Rest

Resting the injured ankle is crucial in the early stages of recovery. But what does “rest” truly entail in this context?

Rest primarily involves avoiding activities that stress the injured ligaments, allowing the healing process to begin. However, it’s important to note that complete immobilization is not recommended for extended periods. Controlled movement and gradual weight-bearing, as tolerated, can promote healing and prevent stiffness.

Ice

The application of ice, or cryotherapy, is a widely used intervention for acute ankle sprains. How does ice therapy benefit the injured ankle?

Ice helps in several ways:

• Reduces pain by numbing the area and slowing nerve conduction
• Decreases inflammation by constricting blood vessels
• Limits swelling by reducing fluid accumulation in the tissues

Typically, ice is applied for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, especially in the first 24-48 hours after injury. However, it’s crucial to protect the skin from direct contact with ice to prevent tissue damage.

Compression

Compression involves applying pressure to the injured area, often through elastic bandages or specialized ankle supports. What are the benefits of compression in ankle sprain treatment?

Compression serves multiple purposes:

• Reduces swelling by limiting fluid accumulation
• Provides support to the injured ligaments
• Enhances proprioception, or the body’s sense of joint position

When applying compression, it’s important to ensure that it’s not too tight, as this could impair circulation. The bandage should be snug but comfortable, allowing for some movement.

Elevation

Elevating the injured ankle above heart level is the final component of the RICE method. How does elevation contribute to the healing process?

Elevation works by:

• Reducing swelling through the effects of gravity on fluid movement
• Decreasing blood flow to the injured area, which can help limit inflammation
• Promoting venous return, which aids in removing waste products from the injured tissues

For optimal results, the ankle should be elevated as much as possible in the initial days following injury, especially when at rest or sleeping.

Scientific Evidence Supporting RICE for Ankle Sprains

While the RICE method has been widely recommended for decades, it’s important to examine the scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness. What does research tell us about the efficacy of RICE in treating ankle sprains?

Several studies have investigated various aspects of the RICE protocol:

• A systematic review by Bleakley et al. (2008) found that some conservative strategies, including elements of RICE, were effective when combined with controlled mobilization and external support
• Research on cryotherapy has shown its effectiveness in reducing pain and swelling in acute ankle sprains
• Studies on compression have demonstrated its role in managing edema and improving functional outcomes

However, it’s worth noting that while individual components of RICE have shown benefits, high-quality studies examining the protocol as a whole are limited. This has led to ongoing discussions in the medical community about the optimal approach to acute ankle sprain management.

Beyond RICE: Additional Treatment Considerations

While RICE remains a valuable initial approach, comprehensive ankle sprain management often involves additional interventions. What other treatments might be considered alongside or following RICE?

Several evidence-based approaches can complement the RICE protocol:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain and inflammation management
• Early mobilization exercises to prevent stiffness and promote healing
• Progressive strengthening and proprioception training to reduce the risk of recurrence
• In severe cases, surgical intervention may be considered, although conservative treatment is typically preferred

It’s important to note that the specific treatment plan should be tailored to the individual, considering factors such as the severity of the sprain, the person’s activity level, and any underlying health conditions.

Potential Limitations and Controversies Surrounding RICE

Despite its widespread use, the RICE protocol is not without controversy. What are some of the potential limitations or criticisms of this approach?

Several points of discussion have emerged in recent years:

• Some researchers argue that ice may interfere with the natural inflammatory process, potentially slowing long-term healing
• The optimal duration and frequency of ice application remain subjects of debate
• Questions have been raised about the potential for compression to impair lymphatic drainage if applied incorrectly
• The balance between rest and early mobilization continues to be a topic of research and discussion

These controversies highlight the need for continued research and the importance of individualizing treatment approaches based on the latest evidence and patient-specific factors.

Preventing Ankle Sprains: Strategies for Reducing Risk

While effective treatment is crucial, preventing ankle sprains in the first place is ideal. What strategies can individuals employ to reduce their risk of experiencing an ankle sprain?

Several evidence-based prevention strategies have been identified:

• Regular ankle strengthening exercises, particularly focusing on the muscles that support inversion and eversion
• Proprioception training to improve balance and joint position sense
• Proper warm-up routines before physical activity
• Use of appropriate footwear for specific activities
• Taping or bracing, especially for individuals with a history of ankle sprains

Implementing these strategies can significantly reduce the risk of initial and recurrent ankle sprains, particularly in high-risk populations such as athletes.

Long-Term Outcomes and Management of Chronic Ankle Instability

For some individuals, an acute ankle sprain can lead to chronic instability and recurrent injuries. How can chronic ankle instability be managed, and what are the long-term implications?

Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is a complex condition that may develop following one or more ankle sprains. Management strategies for CAI include:

• Comprehensive rehabilitation programs focusing on strength, balance, and proprioception
• Use of external supports such as braces or taping during high-risk activities
• In some cases, surgical intervention to repair or reconstruct damaged ligaments

Long-term outcomes for individuals with CAI can vary, but with appropriate management, many people can return to their desired level of activity. However, ongoing attention to ankle health and injury prevention remains crucial.

The management of ankle sprains, from acute injury through long-term recovery and prevention, remains an evolving field. While the RICE protocol continues to play a role in initial management, a comprehensive, evidence-based approach considering individual patient factors is key to optimal outcomes. As research progresses, treatment strategies will likely continue to be refined, offering improved care for individuals suffering from this common but potentially impactful injury.

What Is the Evidence for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation Therapy in the Treatment of Ankle Sprains in Adults?

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why it works so well for minor injuries

RICE treatment, or RICE therapy, is the immediate application of Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation to a minor soft tissue injury like a sprain. RICE is a popular first aid treatment designed to help manage swelling, pain, and blood flow.

It has the advantage of being simple enough that anyone can use it — on the athletic field, at the site of an accident, or at home.

RICE treatment: how to do it

RICE treatment is a first-aid treatment for soft tissue injuries like sprains, strains, and bruises — for example, sprained ankles, sprained knees, or muscle strains. It’s best used immediately after sustaining an injury and should be stopped within two days (48 hours).

RICE has its origins in sports medicine and is commonly used by high school athletes, weekend warriors who get hurt over-exercising, or anyone who sprains or “rolls” an ankle (one of the most common non-sports injuries).

RICE treatment involves four steps:

1. Rest. First, protect the injury from additional strain. Stop activity right away and take pressure off the injured limb (for example, take your weight off your ankle or stop using your arm). If possible, rest the injury for 24 hours to 48 hours, or until you can see a doctor and/or use the limb or body part without feeling pain. 
2. Ice. To minimize swelling and pain, apply a cold pack or bag of ice to the injured area. Do not apply cold directly to skin; wrap in a towel or cloth or apply over clothing. Ice injuries for 20 minutes three times per day, or alternate between ice and no ice for 15 minutes at a time until the swelling goes down. As with rest, ice the injury for up to 24 to 48 hours.
3. Compression. To further reduce swelling, compress the injury by wrapping it firmly, but not too tightly, with an elastic, Ace-style bandage (wrapping too snugly may cut off blood flow and actually increase swelling). An elastic bandage is important because it can expand, allowing blood to flow through the injury area. You’ll know the bandage is too tight and vessels are restricted if you experience an increase in pain, numbness, tingling, cooling skin, or swelling in the area below the bandage (farther from the heart). Compression can usually be removed after 48 to 72 hours.
4. Elevation. Lastly, using pillows, elevate the injury at heart level or above. Doing so aids circulation by allowing your blood to cycle through the injury area and back towards the heart. Elevation prevents additional swelling and pain.

RICE TREATMENT: why it works

RICE reduces blood flow to the injured area, which keeps post-injury swelling and pain from becoming excessive.  

Why is controlling swelling and pain so important?

1. Excess swelling can lead to loss of function. RICE treatment keeps the injured body part flexible so you can use it again sooner. 
2. Excess swelling can cause a great deal of pain. RICE relieves pain. The ice in particular helps with soreness and inflammation.
3. Excess swelling can slow blood flow through the vessels. All injuries need adequate blood flow to heal. However, in the case of bruises or sprains, too much swelling can slow blood flow and keep blood and nutrients from getting to where they’re needed.  This vessel constriction can lead to additional tissue damage or other complications (especially in the extremities, like feet and fingers). RICE (especially the ice) reduces swelling and promotes circulation of the blood to the injury site.

Recent studies have shown that patients with sprains may heal faster if they begin gently exercising their injured limbs as soon as possible. In fact, some experts believe the “R” in RICE may be unnecessary after the first few minutes, and recommend using the injured limb the same day, with the help of a brace or splint.

However, too much swelling and pain can make weight-bearing and movement difficult. It’s hard to walk on a sprained ankle, for example, when you’re in excruciating pain or when swelling has made the joint too tender and stiff too bend.

RICE is a key part of getting patients past the initial pain-and-swelling hurdle so they can start exercising and begin healing. 

Remember, RICE is first aid — not an ongoing treatment.

Note, RICE shouldn’t be used indefinitely. Stop after the first two days, unless otherwise directed by a doctor. If you keep using RICE you may delay the natural inflammation and healing process.

However, if used immediately after a sprain or strain and for up to 48 hours after injury, RICE therapy tends to get people back “on their feet” faster.

If you have a sprain or strain, call Coastal Orthopedics. Located in Corpus Christi, our orthopedic specialists can examine you, assess your condition, and discuss which treatment is the right choice for you. We also offer knee conditioning, shoulder conditioning, and other programs that can help get you back into shape after injury. Telephone: 361.994.1166.

Article written by: Rob Williams, MD

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Orthopedic Sports Medicine Texas,

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Ankle taping: fixing the foot with tape in case of sprain

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What is taping?

Excessive loads or sudden, careless movements in the lower limb can lead to various injuries of the ankle joint. Ankle taping is a modern therapeutic technique for relieving muscle tension and pain relief. Due to a number of advantages, taping facilitates the acute period and accelerates the recovery of function.

Rigid Sports Ankle Taping is a taping technique that restricts mobility and thus reduces or blocks the range of pathological movements in the joints by fixing several layers of tape on the legs or arms. Tape is a special fabric patch with an adhesive layer applied on the inside.

This article is advisory in nature. Treatment is prescribed by a specialist after consultation.

Fig. 1 Tapes for bruises

Why taping for bruises

• stimulation of blood flow in small vessels of the skin and subcutaneous tissue

• reduction of pain in the injured area due to improved lymph outflow

• normalization of the function of muscle groups in the damaged area

• restoration of joint function and extensibility of fascia

• positive stimulating effect on the neuromuscular system as a whole

The general goal of taping is to create a favorable environment for the restoration of physiological processes in the damaged area.

Taping is allowed in all periods of injury – acute, subacute, chronic and recovery.

Features of ankle joint taping

General rules for applying and removing tapes

irritation technique is not carried out. The skin at the site of application of the tape should be dry and clean – if the manipulation is carried out after a therapeutic massage, it must be carried out after hygienic water procedures. If there is pronounced hair growth on the skin in the taping area, they are removed.

The direction of application of the tape and its tension in the area of ​​the affected area play a decisive role in achieving the desired effect, while insufficient tension during the application of the elastic strip is much preferable to excessive tension, which can disrupt microcirculation and cause swelling.

Taping tensions

2 Tension levels for taping

Care should also be taken when removing the adhesive tape to avoid aggravating injury or skin damage. Use scissors with a blunt end – the tape is removed slowly, applying pressure to the skin as close as possible to the line of tape attachment. The tape can be on the skin for 2-5 days – a longer fixation does not make sense due to a decrease in the effectiveness of the elastopolymer included in the tape. The tape must be removed within 48 hours of application, or sooner if there is an increase in pain or symptoms (including skin irritation or itching).

Selecting the color of the tape

Tape can be of different colors, while, in addition to the aesthetic meaning, the color of the tape is important for the correct psycho-emotional impact – color therapy. Black tapes have the international designation “outdoor” – “street”, since most often black tapes are used in sports medicine, including street sports. According to the laws of physics, when exposed to sunlight, black applications heat up faster than others, which leads to the retention of thermal energy, heating of the adhesive layer and an increase in wearing time and strength of the tape.

Fig. 3 Different colors of tapes

How to use tapes for injuries and some diseases of the ankle

It has been proven that taping the ankle joint reduces the impact force and balances the stress in the joint. To understand how to apply tape on the ankle correctly, it is important to understand the basic principles of applications in this area. Proper ankle bracing reduces slippage and plantar flexion, which may be associated with the most common mechanisms of ankle injury.

The ankle must be in a neutral position (90°) for taping. The person undergoing the procedure should sit comfortably, with the knee fully extended and only the far (closer to the foot) half of the lower leg should come off the surface.

When used correctly, the ankle taping technique has a number of advantages and can:

• Help heal ankle injuries
• Promote an earlier return to sports or activities after an injury
• Reduce the likelihood of exacerbation of a previous injury
• Prevent ankle and ankle injuries (e. g. sprains) during sports activities – netball, basketball, football, soccer and other sports or normal physical activity – hiking or walking on uneven ground

Types of ankle taping

4 Types of ankle taping

Kinesiology taping for diseases and injuries of the ankle joint involves the use of various corrective techniques, which can be:

• mechanical

• fascial

• laxative

• ligament and tendon 90 003

• functional

• lymphatic (microcirculatory)

joint, I-, Y-, X-shaped and fan-shaped tapes are most often used. When taping the ankle, combinations of several forms are usually used.

Form of tapes for diseases and injuries of the ankle joint

Pic. 5 Form of tapes

Contusion or blow

Contusion of the ankle joint, as a rule, is manifested by quite severe pain and swelling of the soft tissues in the joint area, therefore taping in this case is performed in order to reduce these symptoms. It is recommended to apply the tape without tension in the area of ​​the projection of pain for 3-5 days, followed by the transition to the application to support the ankle joint, which is used for sprains.

Taping technique for bruising of the foot and ankle, as well as after fractures, is selected individually in each case. One of the popular application techniques is the following:

• 1

  The length of the first application with an I-shaped tape corresponds to the distance between the middle and lower 1/3 of the lower leg when projected onto the heel area and to the symmetrical zone on the opposite side. The length of the second tape should be equal to the length from the inner to the outer edge of the heel

• 2

  Taping is carried out in the supine position with the leg bent at the knee and the foot at an angle of 90°

• 3

  and heel. One edge of the adhesive tape is drawn along the outside of the ankle, and the other along the inside. The second application is applied from the middle with a slight tension from the fold line to the joint space at an angle. Tape ends converge at the heel and are fixed without tension

Ankle sprain

Most ankle sprains are inversion injuries accompanied by a complete or partial tear of the lateral ligament complex.

When spraining the ligamentous apparatus of the ankle joint, tapes with a width of about 5 cm are used, and the length is selected individually.

How to apply an ankle sprain tape? One application of the tape is applied from the toes along the plantar side of the foot to the middle of the calf along the back of the foot. The zone of the second application is along the inner surface from the toes to the middle of the tibia. The last tape is pasted over the area from the heel and along the outer and inner surfaces of the lower leg.

When spraining the ankle ligaments from the lateral side, all stirrup tours begin to be applied from the inner lateral surface of the lower leg.

The main purpose of taping for ankle sprains and pathological joint mobility is its stabilization, not fixation. The tape is applied in such a way that there is maximum stimulation of various receptors in the area of ​​the damaged joint. This effect is usually achieved due to a rather high degree of tape tension (50–75%) on the application area. Mechanical correction that occurs in the ankle area allows you to ensure the correct position of all joints and muscles in order to avoid pathological movements.

Most importantly – proper stretch taping provides full physiological range of motion in the ankle joint, as well as maintains adequate blood circulation and lymphatic drainage.

Bursitis

Indications for bursitis taping are:

• Achilles tendon, ankle or calf pain

• Redness and swelling around the ankle or heel 9T euping in this case will be aimed at local reduction of edema and increased blood flow in the joint area. In order to reduce activity, an application is carried out on the area of ​​the triceps muscle of the lower leg and a tendon correction is performed. Tape about 5 cm wide is applied to the lower part of the heel, passes through the damaged area and reaches the middle of the lower leg. In the fold area, a second strip is glued perpendicular to the first. The third section of the tape is applied to the heel area under the second section.

  Arthrosis

  Arthrosis of the ankle joint is a condition characterized by a degenerative process with gradual wear of the cartilage and bone surfaces of the joint, followed by inflammation. In the treatment of arthrosis, the tape fixes the area of ​​the ankle joint, while reducing the load on the ligamentous apparatus. In this situation, taping is well combined with classical methods of treating arthrosis, including intra-articular injections of synthetic synovial fluid substitutes and other physiotherapy techniques.
  The main indications for taping in osteoarthritis of the ankle are:

  • Prevention of excessive load on the articular surface and prevention of injury

  • Slowing down the progression of the disease in the early stages

  One of the common methods of taping for arthrosis of the ankle is application 2 wide I-shaped adhesive tapes. The base of one tape is glued on the outer side of the lower leg, then the tape is drawn around the heel, and the second edge is fixed at the ankle from the inside. The second application is applied on the back surface above the foot. The third tape is applied similarly to the second, but fixation of the ankle begins with taping the outside of the foot.

  Another method of taping for arthrosis has the following algorithm of actions:

  • 1

    the foot is set at an angle of 90° and the ankle is fixed in the most comfortable position

  • 2 900 03

    apply 5-6 tapes: the first tapes are glued below and above the ankle joint, while the tape is stretched and fixed with both hands at once

  • 3

    0003

  Taping for football players

  Ankle and foot injuries are the most common injuries in both professional and amateur football. Due to the huge load on the lower limbs while playing football, the muscles and ligaments in the ankle area are subjected to microtraumas, which stimulate inflammatory processes.

  The main principle of taping in the acute period of ankle joint injury is the openness of the tours of the elastic band. It is important to avoid the application of circular closed tapes in order to avoid circulatory disorders in the area of ​​damage and aggravate swelling of the joint.

  Before the taping procedure, it is important to find out the mechanism and time of the injury, the exact localization of pain, to determine which movements and position of the limb relieve pain and which aggravate.

  Taping in the acute period is performed by the so-called open braiding. The main tours on the lower leg are placed at an angle to the ankle and perpendicular to the longitudinal arch of the foot. Then stirrup and spur tours are applied along the lateral surface of the foot and lower leg.

  Taping – for or against?

  Taping has a number of important advantages:

  • The adhesive layer is hypoallergenic and irritating to the skin

  • The tape does not interfere with range of motion

  • 90 002 Can be used in any sports, incl. in water (the tape does not lose its properties in water and does not peel off)

  • The elasticity of the tape corresponds to the elastic properties of human skin by 30%

  • Tape does not cause compression of tissues, but lifts them, which improves the outflow of fluid during swelling and normalizes blood circulation in the limbs skin surface to 5 days

  Despite the high safety, like any physiotherapeutic method, taping has some contraindications. The application of tapes on the ankle joint should be avoided in the following cases:

  • Presence of certain injuries, such as fractures
  • Skin allergy to components of the adhesive base of the tape
  • Taping technique leads to increased symptoms such as pain, aches, discoloration, tingling or numbness, swelling or excessive redness of the foot or ankle
  • Loss of sensation in the lower leg due to neurological diseases or circulation problems in the lower extremities

  “Golden Rules” of taping

  • 1

    In the acute period of injury, illness or at the very beginning of rehabilitation, taping techniques with high percentages of tape tension are never used

  • 2 90 003

    With any method of tape application using elastic bands, a lack of tension is always better than an excess of it

  • 3

    No more than three tapes are applied to one ankle joint and lower leg at the same time

  • 4

    When using a combination of different methods of taping in the ankle area, the tape with a lower percentage of tension or with the most elastic structure is glued first

  • 5

    taping and sports hard taping, kinesio taping is applied closer to the knee joint to improve blood circulation

  Modern taping is a combination of various methods, approaches and concepts in the treatment and prevention of injuries and chronic diseases of the musculoskeletal system. The results of scientific research of the technique allow to introduce it more widely into the practice of sports and clinical medicine.

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  Ultrasound of the ankle joint in Moscow at the Dikul clinic: prices, appointment appointment

  Ultrasound of the ankle joint in Moscow at the Dikul clinic: prices, appointment | Center Dikul

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  • Ultrasound examinations
  • Ultrasound of the ankle joint

  Ultrasound examination is informative enough to assess morphological changes in the ankle. This diagnostic method is more economical than MRI, and the ability to obtain visual information in real time can sometimes identify the cause of symptoms. Ultrasound of the ankle can be used to evaluate tendons (including tears and inflammation), joints, plantar fascia, ligaments, soft tissue masses, ganglion cysts, Morton’s neuroma, and foreign bodies. Power Doppler can be used to assess blood flow in acute inflammation and reflex sympathetic dystrophy.

  What can be seen with an ankle ultrasound?

  Ultrasound examination of the ankle can clearly visualize the various structures in this area. Ultrasound allows you to evaluate the stabilizing ligaments of the lateral side of the ankle joint, as well as the tendons that run from the lower leg to the foot. An ultrasound examination of the anterior ankle joint may also reveal pathologies such as osteoarthritis and synovitis. Structures that can be clearly visualized with ultrasound include:

  • All ankle joints. With the help of Doppler ultrasound, you can determine the cause of hyperemia and detect synovitis.
  • Neurovascular structures well visualized including dorsalis pedis, tibial nerve, peroneal nerves
  • Medial soft tissue structures such as the posterior tibial tendon, flexor digitorum and flexor hallucis.
  • Lateral soft tissue structures including peroneus brevis and longus inc.
  • Ligament structures surrounding the ankle joint, including the Anteriortalofibular ligament, Calcaneofibular ligament and the Syndesmotic region.
  • Posteriorly well visualized – Achilles tendon and associated structures
  • Superficial part of bone structures, to detect fractures and bone pathology.

  Ultrasound characteristics of normal anatomical structures

  • Bone surface – hyperechoic and regular with posterior acoustic shadowing
  • Joints – Hypoechoic space between bony surface and capsule
  • Tendons and Ligaments – Fibrillar Pattern in Longitudinal Scan and Dotted Pattern in Transverse Scan
  • Bursa – usually visualized by distension of the fluid and has a hyperechoic wall with hypoechoic fluid inside
  • Plantar fascia – hyperechoic fibrillar band
  • Vessels – Hypoechoic Positive Doppler
  • Nerves – fascicular pattern.

  Indications for ankle ultrasonography:

  • Joint – presence of effusion, synovitis
  • Tendons – tenosynovitis, tendinosis, lesions, erosion, enthesopathy
  • Bursa – bursitis
  • Bones – erosion, osteophytes
  • Other pathologies – subcutaneous nodules, tophus in gout, ganglion cyst.

  Ankle Ultrasound Technique

  Ultrasound scanners are ideal for scanning the ankle joint, equipped with linear transducers 7-15 MHz with color and powerful Doppler. To evaluate important anatomical structures of the anterior part of the body, it is recommended to use a systematic scanning protocol with a multiplanar and dynamic approach. A gel pad should be created on the part of the ankle being examined, and the transducer should be placed carefully so as not to put pressure on the structures being examined. Routine practice of comparing the same structures with the contralateral healthy side is recommended.

  Procedure

  • Ultrasound examination of the ankle has no contraindications and does not require any preparation.
  • During an ankle ultrasound, the patient can be in a supine or sitting position.
  • A gel is applied to the area of ​​interest to allow better contact between the transducer and the skin.
  • The ankle joint is examined in four planes (anterior and posterior, lateral and medial).
  • If pathological changes are detected, a re-examination of the area of ​​damage to the anatomical structures can be carried out.

  Benefits

  The ankle and foot are prone to arthritis as this area is often injured.

  • Due to the complex anatomy of soft tissue structures, it is difficult to assess the extent and localization of pathology during clinical examination.
  • Radiography does not provide information about soft tissue and only provides information about bone tissue.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging, although providing high resolution images, is limited by real-time imaging and cost.
  • Affordability, portability and repeatability are the main advantages of ultrasound, which allows you to monitor the dynamics of the disease.