«Frequent Ankle Sprains Linked to More Cartilage Damage»
Frequent ankle sprains can lead to cartilage damage, according to research by Assoc. Dr. Bilgehan Çatal. While cartilage damage in the knee is well-known, Çatal warns that ankle cartilage problems are the second most common after knee issues, especially in young males who participate in high-impact sports like basketball and football. Cartilage injuries can result from trauma, such as a sprain or a fracture, and if not treated correctly, can cause long-term pain and swelling, including mechanical symptoms such as snagging or locking. While non-operative treatments can be successful, if these fail after three to six months, surgery becomes an option, with 80% of patients able to return to their previous activity levels after surgery and physical therapy.
