From the Guidelines
Work restrictions for an ankle sprain typically involve limiting weight-bearing activities for 2-6 weeks, depending on the severity of the sprain, with a focus on phased rehabilitation and work-specific tasks. According to the evidence-based clinical guideline published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine 1, the recommended work restrictions for ankle sprains are as follows:
- For mild sprains, mostly sitting work with no more than 10 kg of lifting and phased rehabilitation focusing on work-specific tasks for 2 weeks
- For moderate sprains, return to full work and sports depending on task requirements after 3-4 weeks
- For severe sprains, partial or total rupture of ligaments, mostly sitting work with no more than 10 kg of lifting and limit standing and walking on uneven surfaces for 3-6 weeks
- For sprains requiring surgery, non-weightbearing cast and crutches for 2 weeks, followed by weight-bearing as tolerated and sedentary work resumed after 3-6 weeks
The guideline also emphasizes the importance of identifying and addressing modifiable risk factors, assessing prognostic factors during rehabilitation, and using functional support, such as a brace, to facilitate return to work 1. Additionally, exercise therapy should be started as soon as possible to recover joint functionality, and supervised exercises with a focus on proprioception, strength, coordination, and function are recommended for sport resumption 1. It is also important to note that immediate functional treatment and a return to work schedule are advised to minimize work absenteeism 1.
Some key points to consider when determining work restrictions for ankle sprains include:
- The severity of the sprain and the individual's overall health and functional ability
- The type of work and the physical demands of the job
- The need for phased rehabilitation and work-specific tasks to promote optimal recovery and prevent future injuries
- The importance of communication between healthcare providers, employers, and employees to ensure a safe and successful return to work.
Overall, the goal of work restrictions for ankle sprains is to allow damaged ligaments to heal properly, preventing chronic instability and recurring sprains, while also minimizing work absenteeism and promoting optimal recovery and return to function.
From the Research
Work Restrictions for Ankle Sprains
The work restrictions for an ankle sprain vary depending on the severity of the injury.
- For grade I and II injuries, a semi-rigid ankle brace is recommended for protection against inversion 2.
- For grade III injuries, a short period of immobilization (maximum 10 days) in a below-knee cast may be advantageous, followed by the use of a semi-rigid ankle brace 2.
- The majority of grades I, II, and III lateral ankle ligament ruptures can be managed without surgery, and the indication for surgical repair should be made on an individual basis 2.
- Nonoperative treatment is commonly recommended for isolated injuries of the lateral ligaments, but no standard strategy exists for combined ankle ligament injuries 3.
Duration of Work Restrictions
The duration of work restrictions for an ankle sprain also depends on the severity of the injury.
- For acute ankle sprains, a phase-adapted non-surgical treatment with a short-term immobilization for grade III injuries followed by a semi-rigid brace is recommended 2.
- The goal of treatment is to return the individual to their chosen activity with a stable ankle, and the duration of work restrictions will vary depending on the individual's progress and the severity of the injury 4.
- Chronic ankle instability is diagnosed when a person continues to have problems with tasks like walking or playing sports 1 year after the original injury, and may require ongoing management and prevention strategies 5.