Ankle sprains seem to boost the risk of developing painful osteoarthritis in the joint, new research suggests. The finding indicates that intensive rehabilitation is needed after chronic ankle instability or strains to help ward off the degenerative joint disease, according to the study authors.
For years, experts have known that arthritis in the ankle often occurs after a fracture of the joint. But arthritis that affects the hip and knee is usually related to wear and tear, experts say.
Swiss researchers led by Dr Victor Valderrabano and Dr Beat Hintermann of the Orthopaedic Department of the University of Basel evaluated 268 patients with ankle arthritis. Valderrabano said arthritis may develop after an ankle sprain due to lingering instability and increased forces at the surface of the joint. Ankle sprains and fractures are very common during sports and recreational activities.