"I Feel Like I Have Lost Part Of My Identity" - A Qualitative Study Exploring The Impact Of Chronic Ankle Instability.
Anders Mohrsen, Thomas Sørensen, Henrik Lund and 4 others
PMID 38439771WHAT IT FOUND
Nine patients with chronic ankle instability described fear of re-spraining, confusion from conflicting advice, and a loss of identity when sport stopped.
They wanted clear explanations, realistic goals, and rehab that fit daily life.
Key findings
01Many participants feared re-spraining their ankle, and that fear led them to avoid activities.
02Participants received conflicting information about their ankle instability, which caused confusion and led some to avoid exercise.
03Patients who had to stop or reduce sport described losing part of their identity and feeling excluded from teammates and community.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for PTsWhat it means for OTs
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What it does not show
Only nine patients were interviewed, all from one orthopedic hospital unit in Denmark, so this is not a general picture of all people with CAI. The sample was selected pragmatically and referred to specialist care, so it may not represent people managed in primary care or with different backgrounds. The study is qualitative. It reports experiences and expectations, not whether any communication or rehabilitation approach improves symptoms, function, or participation. Five interviewers conducted the interviews and the guide was based on existing outcome themes, which may have narrowed what patients said. The authors' biopsychosocial background may have influenced the interviews, though they coded and compared themes transparently.
Declared interests
The authors report no conflicts of interest. The supplied text does not state funding or a sponsor role.
The easy way to misread this
Do not conclude that a biopsychosocial intervention has been shown to improve chronic ankle instability. This study interviewed nine patients and described their experiences, fear, confusion, and participation limits. It did not test any treatment.