High Prevalence of Ankle Abnormalities in Male Basketball Players
Author Information
Author(s): Mandalia Krishna B.S., Harrington Ryan M.D., Mousad Albert B.S., Jenkin Bryan B.S., Ives Katharine B.S., Shah Sarav M.D.
Primary Institution: Tufts University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Height would be associated with a greater prevalence of radiographic abnormalities.
Conclusion
The study found a strong association between height and certain ankle abnormalities, with a high prevalence of pes planus and degenerative joint disease in asymptomatic basketball players.
Supporting Evidence
- 98.15% of ankles showed radiographic abnormalities.
- 47.22% of players had pes planus.
- 33.33% had degenerative joint disease.
- Height ≥80 inches was significantly associated with certain abnormalities.
- Players were evaluated during routine preseason imaging.
- Study included both collegiate and professional athletes.
Takeaway
Tall basketball players often have foot problems, even if they don't feel any pain, which can affect their performance.
Methodology
The study involved routine preseason radiographic imaging of asymptomatic elite-level basketball players to assess ankle abnormalities.
Potential Biases
Recall bias may affect the reporting of previous injuries.
Limitations
The study lacks a control group and may not be generalizable to the general adult population.
Participant Demographics
Mean age 21.5 years, 34 collegiate and 20 professional players.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.022 for height and talonavicular sclerosis; 0.017 for height and DJD changes.
Confidence Interval
0.041-0.123 for height and absence of DJD changes.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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