Which factor should be included in return-to-play decision-making after an ankle sprain?

Which factor should be included in return-to-play decision-making after an ankle sprain?

• A. Imaging results only
• B. Patient's perception of function
• C. Only time since injury
• D. Weather conditions

Answer: (B)

Return-to-play decisions after an ankle sprain should be driven by the athlete's functional status and confidence in the affected ankle, not solely by tests or timing. The athlete’s perception of function captures pain, stability, and the ability to perform sport tasks with minimal restriction, which are critical indicators of readiness and re-injury risk. Imaging can show structural changes but does not reflect how well the ankle moves or handles sport demands, and healing rates vary widely between individuals, so time since injury is not a reliable sole predictor. External factors like weather do not directly determine readiness. In practice, combine the athlete’s reported functional status with objective measures—such as strength, range of motion, balance, proprioception, and sport-specific tests—to make a safe, informed return-to-play decision.

Return-to-play decisions after an ankle sprain should be driven by the athlete's functional status and confidence in the affected ankle, not solely by tests or timing. The athlete’s perception of function captures pain, stability, and the ability to perform sport tasks with minimal restriction, which are critical indicators of readiness and re-injury risk. Imaging can show structural changes but does not reflect how well the ankle moves or handles sport demands, and healing rates vary widely between individuals, so time since injury is not a reliable sole predictor. External factors like weather do not directly determine readiness. In practice, combine the athlete’s reported functional status with objective measures—such as strength, range of motion, balance, proprioception, and sport-specific tests—to make a safe, informed return-to-play decision.