C.R.I.E.S Protocol for Acute Ankle Sprains: A Prospective Study

Ankle sprains are prevalent injuries, constituting 15%-20% of all sports-related injuries and often leading to significant loss of workdays and delayed return to athletic activities. This prospective study evaluates the efficacy of the C.R.I.E.S protocol in managing acute ankle sprains. The protocol includes clinical examination, radiographic evaluation, limited immobilization, exercises, early weight-bearing, and strength training. A total of 276 patients, aged 8 to 67 years, were assessed from May 2022 to March 2025, with a follow-up period ranging from 5 to 34 months. The study categorized injuries into three grades: Grade 1 (127 patients), Grade 2 (144 patients), and Grade 3 (5 patients). Results indicated that Grade 1 injuries had an average recovery time of 3 weeks and 5 days, Grade 2 injuries had an average recovery time of 6.2 weeks, and Grade 3 injuries were managed conservatively with a mean recovery time of 13.6 weeks. The study highlights the importance of early mobilization and muscle strengthening in the recovery process, with no recurrent sprains observed during the follow-up period. The findings suggest that the C.R.I.E.S protocol is effective in managing acute ankle sprains and facilitating a timely return to routine and sporting activities.