Preventing Ankle Sprains with Pregame Ankle Tape Job

A pregame ankle tape job is used to prevent what type of ankle sprain?

Final answer:

A pregame ankle tape job is used to prevent an inversion ankle sprain by stabilizing the joint and limiting excessive inversion of the foot, with the anterior talofibular ligament being most commonly injured first.

Explanation:

A pregame ankle tape job is used primarily to prevent an inversion ankle sprain, which is the most common type of ankle sprain. This injury occurs when the ankle rolls outward, but the foot turns inward, causing the lateral ligaments on the outside of the ankle to stretch or tear. Most ankle sprains are treated with the RICE technique, involving Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. However, taping the ankle before sports activities can help stabilize the joint, thereby reducing the likelihood of sprains by limiting excessive inversion of the foot. During an inversion sprain, the sequence in which the ligaments are typically injured starts with the anterior talofibular ligament, followed by the calcaneofibular ligament, and in more severe cases, the posterior talofibular ligament can be affected as well.