Differences in Ankle Sprain Risk Factors, Anterior Talofibular Ligament, Calcaneofibular Ligament and Lower Leg Muscles' Size Among Athletes With and Without Ankle Sprain Injury History: A Retrospective Study

This study aims to comprehensively explore the relationship between changes in muscle architecture and connective tissue structure in athletes with ankle sprains and the intrinsic biomechanical risk factors observed in these individuals. The main goal of the research is to compare the risk factors associated with ankle sprains, characteristics of lower extremity muscle architecture, and structural features of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) between athletes with and without a history of ankle sprains. Additionally, the study seeks to identify intrinsic factors that may lead to lateral ankle sprains and to investigate the link between these factors and structural changes related to chronic ankle instability. Overall, the study aims to contribute scientifically to the early detection of sprain risk in athletes and the development of personalised preventative intervention strategies. The hypotheses of the study are as follows: Hypothesis 1: In athletes with a history of ankle sprains, the strength of the muscles surrounding the ankle differs from that of their uninjured ankles and ankles of the athletes without a history of sprains. Hypothesis 2: Athletes with a history of ankle sprains have a different level of proprioception (position sense) compared to athletes without a history of sprains. Hypothesis 3: Athletes with a history of ankle sprains have different muscle and ligament sizes compared to their uninjured legs and the legs of athletes without a history of sprains. Hypothesis 4: Dynamic balance differs between athletes with a history of ankle sprains and those without a history of ankle sprains.