More Than Meets the Eye: Clinical Reflection and Evidence-Based Practice in an Unusual Case of Adolescent Chronic Ankle Sprain

Adolescents who have chronic pain after common orthopedic injuries such as ankle sprains may present a multidimensional clinical problem stemming from both physical and psychological issues. A traumatic incident such as a motor vehicle accident can produce clinical issues ranging from a specific tissue injury to multisystem complications such as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) or posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The purpose of this retrospective case report on an adolescent with chronic ankle pain stemming from a motor vehicle accident is to demonstrate how reflection and the evidence base influenced the modification of the plan of care. Description of the screening methods, clinical findings, interventions, and outcomes of the case may help physical therapists identify and improve the quality of care in cases of suspected CRPS and PTSD.