(English) Episode 14-Beyond the Sprain - Smarter Return-to-Sport Decisions for Ankle Injuries

This document presents a narrative review and expert opinion focused on identifying effective tools for clinicians when making return-to-sport (RTS) decisions for patients with chronic ankle instability (CAI), lateral ankle sprains, or post-surgical ankle stabilization. The authors highlight that lateral ankle sprains are a frequent sports injury, with a high percentage leading to CAI, often due to a premature return to activity stemming from a lack of clear RTS guidelines. The review thoroughly examines and recommends specific functional performance tests and self-reported questionnaires for assessing ankle function and psychological readiness. While these tools offer a strong foundation, the text acknowledges the continued need for objective scientific criteria and cut-off scores to further refine RTS protocols.(Picot B, Hardy A, Terrier R, Tassignon B, Lopes R, Fourchet F. Which functional tests and self-reported questionnaires can help clinicians make valid return to sport decisions in patients with chronic ankle instability? A narrative review and expert opinion. Front Sports Act Living [Internet]. 2022;4:902886. Available from: http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fspor.2022.902886)