Whitman JM, Cleland JA, Mintken PE, Keirns MA, Bieniek ML, Albin SR, Magel JS, McPoil TG
The objective of this study was to develop a clinical prediction rule (CPR) to identify patients who had sustained an inversion ankle sprain who would likely benefit from manual therapy and exercise. Consecutive patients with a status of post inversion ankle sprain underwent a standardized examination followed by manual therapy (both thrust and nonthrust manipulation) and general mobility exercises. Patients were classified as having experienced a successful outcome at the second and third sessions based on their perceived recovery. Eighty-five patients were included in the data analysis, of which 64 had a successful outcome (75%). A CPR with 4 variables was identified. If 3 of the 4 variables were present the accuracy of the rule was maximized and the posttest probability of success increased to 95%.
The CPR presented provides the ability to a priori identify patients with an inversion ankle sprain who are likely to exhibit rapid and dramatic short-term success with a treatment approach, including manual therapy and general mobility exercises.
J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2009, 39(3), 188-200