Robert Armstrong D.O. Cautions Athletes to Prepare Against Ankle Sprains

NEW YORK, NY, July 18, 2012

According to a new article from The Chicago Tribune, Greek researchers from The University of Athens recently published findings on causes and preventative measures related to ankle sprains among soccer players. The study, published in The American Journal of Sports Medicine, provided further insight into the unique causes of sprains that were previously unaddressed, as other research studies lacked a particular focus on soccer players. One American sports medicine physician, Robert Armstrong D.O. concurs with these findings and notes further suggestions for proper training and prevention.

George Vagenas led the study and aimed to discover what caused ankle sprains through direct observation. He and his colleagues conducted pre-season tests among one hundred professional Greek soccer players. They then followed the athletes throughout the season to track ankle strength, stability and any resulting injuries. One highlighted finding focused on the particular importance of symmetry; players who displayed an imbalance in ankle strength were nine times more likely to suffer sprains than those athletes who had balanced strengths.

Vagenas commented on these results, "When a player cuts or lands from a jump, it's important to have symmetrical activation of the two sets of ankle muscles to help the joints absorb the impact and prevent damage." Dr. Robert Armstrong notes that these are vital statistics that should encourage all soccer players to train and established proper ankle strength balance. However, he notes that these problems are only avoidable if an individual commits to routine strengthening exercises.

The article showcases many solutions that help prevent ankle sprain injury. Such suggestions include lace-up ankle braces, "wobble board" balance training and learning how to cut and land properly. Dr. Armstrong recommends the proprioception program and states, "It would decrease the number of ankle sprains we see in our sports medicine practice if every athlete could have an ankle and subtalar joint range of motion, strengthening and proprioception program training. This program should be taught to them by their trainers."

While the study focused on professional soccer players in Greece, the results are particularly important for amateur athletes. Dr. Robert Armstrong notes that prevention injury early in one's sports career can help prevent even more serious damage collected over time; if an athlete takes proper precautions early on, he or she can ensure better chances for success and health in the future.

ABOUT:

Robert Armstrong D.O., of West Penn Orthopedics, has years of experience in adult reconstructive surgery and sports medicine. He specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and prevention of injuries and diseases regarding the musculoskeletal system. His goal is to get patients out of pain and back to their independent lifestyles. Dr. Armstrong treats patients of all ages at his offices in Clarion and DuBois, Pennsylvania.

To learn more about his services or to schedule an appointment, visit www.drarmstrong.com.