Understanding Intrinsic Risk Factors for Lateral Ankle Sprain in Military Recruits

Alshammari, Khalid

Abstract

Lateral ankle sprain (LAS) is a common injury among physically active individuals. This
PhD study aims to identify the risk factors that contribute to the occurrence of LAS, with
a specific focus on military recruits. The findings of this study will assist in developing
prevention strategies to reduce the occurrence of LAS among military recruits. The
research is divided into three parts: a systematic review and meta-analysis to identify
primary intrinsic risk factors, a repeatability and reliability study to establish the validity
of measurement tools, and a primary prospective study to investigate the biomechanical
risk factors during physical tasks.
The systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to identify the primary intrinsic risk
factors for LAS. The repeatability and reliability study aimed to establish the
repeatability and reliability of various measurement tools, such as goniometer, sliding
breadth calliper, YBT, HHD, 2D motion analysis, and the validity of 2D motion analysis
with 3D kinematics. For the repeatability study a sample of twelve healthy and
physically active participants were selected from University of Hail.
The primary prospective study aimed to investigate the biomechanical risk factors
associated with LAS during single leg landing and lateral hopping tasks. The study
recruited 204 participants from the Saudi military recruits who were undergoing a 12-
week basic military training programme. The risk factors were assessed at the start of
the programme, and injury cases reported during the 12-week duration were included in
the study. Anthropometric measurement, dynamic balance by Y-balance test, range of
XVI
motion of ankle joint using goniometer, ankle and hip muscle strength using handheld
dynamometer and lower limb kinematics via two-dimensional camera.
Statistical analysis was performed using binary logistic regression and multiple logistic
regression. The results of the study suggest that individuals with greater body mass,
decreased dorsiflexion strength, decreased anterior Y-balance, and decreased the peak
of ankle towards dorsiflexion angle during SLL post-initial contact were predictive
factors for LAS among the injured compared to the uninjured. These variables could be
used to set a screening standard for LAS.
In conclusion, the findings of this study provide valuable insights into the risk factors
associated with LAS among physically active individuals, particularly military recruits.
The findings could help to reduce LAS incidence and impact among military recruits and
could guide screening standards and strengthen injury prevention strategies through
targeted training programmes. The measurement tools and methodologies established
provide a foundation for future studies on LAS and other musculoskeletal injuries
related to physical activity.

Citation

Alshammari, K. (2024). Understanding Intrinsic Risk Factors for Lateral Ankle Sprain in Military Recruits. (Thesis). University of Salford

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Feb 14, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Apr 27, 2024
• Award Date: Mar 26, 2024