Ankle sprains, or sprains, are one of the most common injuries experienced by futsal and basketball players. In almost every game or training session, players land incorrectly after jumping, stepping on an opponent's foot, or suddenly changing direction. While these may seem like minor injuries, many players complain of a recurring ankle injury on the same side.
So why do ankle injuries recur so easily?
Game Characters Make Ankle Work Very Hard
Futsal and basketball have similar gameplay characteristics. Both require players to move quickly, stop suddenly, run while turning, jump, and land in a short time.
These movements place significant stress on the ankle joint. When the foot lands in an awkward position, the ligaments on the outside of the ankle can stretch or even tear. This injury is known as a lateral ankle sprain , a type of ankle injury that most often occurs in athletes in sports involving frequent jumping and changes of direction.
Old Injury Not Yet Fully Recovered
One of the main causes of ankle recurrence is that players return to sports before the healing process is complete.
While pain may subside within a few days or weeks, this doesn't necessarily mean the ligaments are back to their original strength. Ligaments need time to repair damaged tissue. If players return to competition immediately just because the pain has subsided, the risk of re-injury increases.
Many athletes feel ready to play because they can walk or jog lightly, even though their ankle's ability to maintain balance and stability has not fully recovered.
Muscles and Nerves Lose Control of the Ankle
Ankle injuries not only damage the ligaments, but also affect the body's ability to recognize joint position, also known as proprioception .
Normally, the brain receives information from the ligaments, muscles, and joints about the position of the feet, allowing the body to automatically maintain balance. After a sprain, this ability can be impaired.
As a result, the ankle becomes more prone to "twisting" when landing, turning, or changing direction quickly. This condition often makes someone feel unstable or like their ankle is about to sprain again, even though the previous injury occurred a long time ago.
Rehabilitation is often overlooked
Many people assume treatment is complete when the swelling disappears. However, the rehabilitation phase is crucial in determining whether or not the injury will recur.
Rehabilitation programs typically include:
- balance training,
- strengthening the calf and ankle muscles,
- coordination exercises,
- jump and landing exercises,
- gradual change of direction practice.
These exercises help restore ankle stability, enabling it to withstand the rapid movements of futsal and basketball. Several studies have shown that neuromuscular and balance training can significantly reduce the risk of recurrent ankle injuries.
Injury History Is the Biggest Risk Factor
Interestingly, research has found that a history of ankle injury is the strongest risk factor for experiencing the same injury later in life.
This means that someone who has experienced a sprain is more likely to experience a re-injury than someone who has never experienced an ankle injury. This occurs because ligament structure, muscle strength, and balance control often don't fully return to pre-injury levels if rehabilitation isn't optimal.
Does an Ankle Brace Help?
For athletes with a history of repeated sprains, the use of an ankle brace or taping may be an option to reduce the risk of injury upon returning to play.
However, it's important to remember that a brace is not a substitute for rehabilitation exercises. It simply provides additional external stability. The primary strength still comes from the muscles, ligaments, and the body's ability to maintain balance. Therefore, a brace will provide the best results when used in conjunction with an appropriate exercise program.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Immediately consult an orthopedic doctor if the following conditions appear after an ankle injury:
- severe pain so that one cannot step,
- swelling that is getting bigger,
- extensive bruising,
- ankle feels loose or often "comes off",
- recurring injuries on the same side,
- pain does not improve after several weeks.
Further examination is needed to ensure there are no serious ligament tears, cartilage injuries, or broken bones that may require special treatment.
Conclusion
Ankle injuries in futsal and basketball players often recur, not only because these sports are high-risk, but also because many players return to play before full recovery. Furthermore, suboptimal rehabilitation exercises prevent the ankle from regaining its original strength, balance, and movement control.
With proper treatment from the start, gradual rehabilitation, and following a doctor's recommendations before returning to sport, the risk of re-injury can be reduced, allowing players to return to playing safely and confidently.
Article written by Dr. Steesy Benedicta, M.Ked.Klin, Sp.OT (Orthopedic & Traumatology Specialist, EMC Pulomas Hospital).