Intrinsic Risk Factors of Lateral Ankle Sprain: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

CONTEXT: Lateral ankle ligamentous sprain (LAS) is one of the most common injuries in recreational activities and competitive sports. Many studies have attempted to determine whether there are certain intrinsic factors that can predict LAS. However, no consensus has been reached on the predictive intrinsic factors. OBJECTIVE: To identify the intrinsic risk factors of LAS by meta-analysis from data in randomized control trials and prospective cohort studies. DATA SOURCES: A systematic computerized literature search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, ScienceDirect, SPORTDiscus, and Cochrane Register of Clinical Trials was performed. STUDY SELECTION: A computerized literature search from inception to January 2015 resulted in 1133 studies of the LAS intrinsic risk factors written in English. STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 4. DATA EXTRACTION: The modified quality index was used to assess the quality of the design of the papers and the standardized mean difference was used as an index to pool included study outcomes. RESULTS: Eight articles were included in this systematic review. Meta-analysis results showed that body mass index, slow eccentric inversion strength, fast concentric plantar flexion strength, passive inversion joint position sense, and peroneus brevis reaction time correlated with LAS. CONCLUSION: Body mass index, slow eccentric inversion strength, fast concentric plantar flexion strength, passive inversion joint position sense, and the reaction time of the peroneus brevis were associated with significantly increased risk of LAS.