Our aim was to evaluate the effects of topical analgesic drugs on rapid recovery of joint functions and pain relief in acute ankle injuries.

A total of 100 patients were included in the study and divided into 2 groups as Diclofenac and Etofenamate. The pain scores of the patients were evaluated with the Numeric Rating scale and Wong-Baker scale before and after treatment. Dorsiflexion and plantarflexion active joint movements were measured with a hand-held goniometer for joint function before and after treatment.

We found that ankle sprains were more common in men. In our study, we found that both topical analgesics were effective in improving joint movements and reducing pain.

Inclusion Criteria:Those over the age of 18, who applied to the emergency room within the first 48 hours after an ankle sprain, who have grade 1/mild and grade 2/moderate ankle sprains, who have excluded fractures and dislocations, who have no muscle-tendon ruptures, no vascular or nerve injuries, no open wounds or burns, whose vital signs are stable, and who give written and verbal consent.

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Exclusion Criteria:Those who did not present within the first 48 hours of ankle sprain, grade 3/severe ankle sprain, multiple trauma, pregnancy, suspected pregnancy, foot and ankle fractures and dislocations, those who had a previous ankle operation or fracture, and cases who did not accept to participate in the study

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Cases presenting to the emergency department with an ankle sprain within the first 48 hours