Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Chronic Ankle Instability and Its Management Among Ankle Sprain Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background and Objective: This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of patients with ankle sprains regarding chronic ankle instability (CAI) and its management. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Shanghai from June 2024 to August 2024 among adults with a history of ankle sprain. Participants completed an electronic self-administered questionnaire assessing knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding chronic ankle instability and its management. Spearman correlation and structural equation modeling with bootstrap resampling were used to examine associations and pathways among KAP dimensions. Results: Among the participants, 289 (51.60%) were males, 288 (51.45%) reported occasional exercise, and 207 (36.95%) currently experienced ankle instability. The mean scores for knowledge, attitude, and practice were 9.87±4.54 (possible range: 0-16), 24.48±2.97 (possible range: 8-40), and 27.17±7.67 (possible range: 9-45), respectively. Positive correlations were found between knowledge and practice (r=0.4772, P<0.001). The mediation analysis demonstrated that knowledge (β=0.81, P < 0.001), attitude (β = -0.34, P < 0.001), and exercise habits (β= -2.59, P < 0.001) directly affected practice. Conclusion: The findings suggest predominantly moderate knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward CAI, with significant room for improvement, highlighting the need for educational interventions to enhance prevention, rehabilitation adherence, and long-term management.
DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s585206
Authors: Bibo Wang, Zhaolong Xue, WeiFan XU, Bing Li, Yunfeng Yang
Institutions: Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Ruijin Hospital
Language: English
Topic: Foot and Ankle Surgery
Subfield: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,836
OpenAlex ID: W7130599557
