Functional Anatomy, Pathomechanics, and Pathophysiology of Lateral Ankle Instability.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the functional anatomy of the ankle complex as it relates to lateral ankle instability and to describe the pathomechanics and pathophysiology of acute lateral ankle sprains and chronic ankle instability. DATA SOURCES: I searched MEDLINE (1985-2001) and CINAHL (1982-2001) using the key words ankle sprain and ankle instability. DATA SYNTHESIS: Lateral ankle sprains are among the most common injuries incurred during sports participation. The ankle functions as a complex with contributions from the talocrural, subtalar, and inferior tibiofibular joints. Each of these joints must be considered in the pathomechanics and pathophysiology of lateral ankle sprains and chronic ankle instability.…