Efficacy of integrated protocol in the management of ankle sprain in sports injuries - A randomized controlled clinical trial

Abstract

Background

Among athletes, ankle sprains are the most frequent injury, with an prevalence of 12.62% of all injuries. Sports injuries can be prevented and treated more effectively when complementary and alternative medicine is used. In Ayurveda ankle joint injuries are correlated with Gulpha (ankle) marmabhighata (injury to important point of concern for health) and management is done accordingly. Integrated approach using Ayurveda and Physiotherapy protocol is the need of hour to produce evidence-based results.

Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy of the integrated management protocol of ankle sprain in sports injuries.

Materials and methods

A total of 30 patients with ankle sprains were recruited after satisfying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The procedures (Integrated and Standard) were performed after obtaining informed consent, and the participants were divided into two groups, i.e., the treatment group (integrated approach) and the control group (standard approach). Parameters like pain, swelling, temperature, tenderness, range of motion and manual muscle testing were all measured at baseline and at various time points (6^th, 11^th, and 18^th day) throughout the study.

Statistical analysis

The data was analysed with the Mann-Whitney U test, Wilcoxon matched pairs test, independent 't’ test, and dependent ‘t'test.

Results

The treatment group has shown significantly better results (within and between groups) than the control group in relation to all the parameters like pain, tenderness, temperature, swelling, range of motion, and manual muscle testing.

Conclusion

An integrated approach using Ayurveda and physiotherapy was found to be more effective than the standard approach in the management of ankle sprains.