Ultrasound imaging to quantify the strain rate of the Anterior Talo-Fibular Ligament
Presenter Type
UNO Graduate Student (Masters)
Major/Field of Study
Biomechanics
Advisor Information
bknarr@unomaha.edu
Location
MBSC Ballroom Poster # 105 - G (Masters)
Presentation Type
Poster
Start Date
24-3-2023 10:30 AM
End Date
24-3-2023 11:45 AM
Abstract
During lateral ankle sprains, ligaments on the outside of the ankle are most likely to sustain damage. When repeated LAS occurs the feeling of the ankle “giving way” is a key reason that individuals seek help because they have unknowingly developed chronic ankle instability (CAI). To confirm CAI, questionnaires or a functional performance test used called the single limb side hop test are commonly used. However, functional tests such as the single limb hop test lack the ability to distinguish overall poor balance from ankle instability. Previously, studies have been performed looking at only the length and width of ankle ligaments to characterize mechanical stability surrounding the ankle as it relates to an individual with CAI. These studies resulted in non-significant findings. However, these previous studies may have been limited because they were looking at anatomical differences between individuals. In this study we propose looking at the ligament’s material characteristics to identify those with CAI. We are proposing that the strain rate of the ligaments directly affected during a LAS is more informative. Using ultrasound and an ankle arthrometer, we will take images of the Antero-talofibular ligament (ATFL) as it undergoes safe and controlled ankle inversion. Strain, or the change in length of the ATFL over the original length may provide a more physiologically relevant assessment of the supporting ligament typically involved in CAI.
Scheduling
10:45 a.m.-Noon, 1-2:15 p.m.
Ultrasound imaging to quantify the strain rate of the Anterior Talo-Fibular Ligament
MBSC Ballroom Poster # 105 - G (Masters)
During lateral ankle sprains, ligaments on the outside of the ankle are most likely to sustain damage. When repeated LAS occurs the feeling of the ankle “giving way” is a key reason that individuals seek help because they have unknowingly developed chronic ankle instability (CAI). To confirm CAI, questionnaires or a functional performance test used called the single limb side hop test are commonly used. However, functional tests such as the single limb hop test lack the ability to distinguish overall poor balance from ankle instability. Previously, studies have been performed looking at only the length and width of ankle ligaments to characterize mechanical stability surrounding the ankle as it relates to an individual with CAI. These studies resulted in non-significant findings. However, these previous studies may have been limited because they were looking at anatomical differences between individuals. In this study we propose looking at the ligament’s material characteristics to identify those with CAI. We are proposing that the strain rate of the ligaments directly affected during a LAS is more informative. Using ultrasound and an ankle arthrometer, we will take images of the Antero-talofibular ligament (ATFL) as it undergoes safe and controlled ankle inversion. Strain, or the change in length of the ATFL over the original length may provide a more physiologically relevant assessment of the supporting ligament typically involved in CAI.