External support and early mobilisation works best for mild or moderate ankle sprains

Research question What is the best method of treating first time ankle sprains?

Answer External support with a combination of an elastic wrap and a stirrup brace and early mobilisation are best for moderately severe injuries.

Why did the authors do the study? There is still debate about the best way to treat ankle sprains of differing severity. External support coupled with controlled, early mobilisation probably works best for mild injuries, but which kind of support? These authors also wanted find out whether a cast works better than support and early mobilisation for people with moderate or severe sprains.

What did they do? Two hundred and twelve young adults who had sprained their ankle for the first time took part in a …