Ankle Injury Prevention and Footwear in Collegiate Basketball Players

Methods of protection for athletes have been changing as the athletes evolve and new information is brought forth (Drakos, MC., et al). More than 60% of all game and practice injuries were to the lower extremity, with the most common game injuries being ankle ligament sprains, knee injuries (internal derangements and patellar conditions), and concussions (Agel, Julie., et al). There are many forms of protective gear that can be used in order to prevent injuries across all athletes. Shoe design has been researched over many years in order to see if there are specific benefits to wearing a specific shoe to protect against ankle inversion and injury (Avramakis E., et al). Previous research indicates a variety of different outcomes when looking into ankle injury prevention and low or high footwear choice such as taping for ankles and braces as well as for knees and ankles (Taylor, Jeffery., et al). However, in a randomized control trial study done with 622 college intramural basketball players with prior ankle injuries, researchers found that there was no correlation between shoe type and ankle sprains that were occurring to the athletes (Barrett JR., et al). By determining if there is an association between high top shoes and ankle injury prevention, players and coaches can be more knowledgeable about protecting themselves from future possible injuries. For the purpose of this study I will focus on shoe type being my exposure of interest with a survey that will gather information on preference of shoe, past ankle injuries, and protective measures used by athletes against injur