Ankle Mechanics in Adolescent Athletes

Ankle sprains are particularly prevalent in athletic populations, with tears to the lateral ligament complex (LLC) being the most common sprain type. The likeliness of a lateral ankle sprain increases with dynamic movements such as jump landings or rapid changes of direction often displayed in cutting and pivoting maneuvers, all common tasks across various sport types. Ankle injuries have been documented as the most common pediatric trauma injury, with ankle sprain incidence rate higher in children and adolescents compared to adults. Female athletes have also demonstrated higher ankle injury rates through non-contact mechanisms compared to males. In this study, we will assess whether there are differences in ankle mechanics between adolescent male and female athletes. The definition of biomechanical differences may have important implications for training and injury prevention programs specific to sex and pubertal status and could help decrease the incidence of ankle sprains.

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