On 2nd April, the Isokinetic Verona hosted a new edition of the “Health, Science and Sport” series, this time dedicated to one of the most frequent issues in the world of sport: ankle sprains. The event generated significant interest in the Verona area, so much so that it was covered by the broadcaster Telearena, and addressed the topic with a multidisciplinary approach, from diagnosis to surgery, through to complete rehabilitation.
An exceptional guest to discuss ankle surgery
The evening’s protagonist was Dr Venanzio Iacono, consultant surgeon and deputy head of department at IRCCS Sacro Cuore – Don Calabria in Negrar, one of Italy’s leading experts in ankle and foot surgery. With over 14,000 operations to his name, including 8,000 as lead surgeon, and his role as orthopaedic consultant to several professional sports clubs, Dr Iacono shared his experience in the surgical management of complex ankle sprains, when conservative treatment is not sufficient.
Regional delegate for Veneto SIAGASCOT and speaker at numerous national and international conferences, Dr Iacono obtained National Scientific Qualification as Associate Professor in 2023, confirming his ongoing commitment to research and training.
Ankle sprain: an injury not to be underestimated
Ankle sprain represents one of the most common injuries in sporting activity, affecting disciplines such as football, basketball, volleyball and athletics. In Verona, a city with a strong sporting tradition and home to numerous professional and amateur clubs, appropriate management of these injuries is particularly important to guarantee athletes a complete and safe recovery.
During the evening, Dr Iacono illustrated how an inadequate approach can lead to chronic instability, persistent pain and increased risk of recurrence, compromising an athlete’s sporting career. The key to success lies in correct initial assessment and choosing the most appropriate treatment pathway, which can range from conservative treatment to surgical intervention in the most severe cases.
Rehabilitation excellence at the FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence
The multidisciplinary team from Isokinetic Verona, recognised as a FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, completed the clinical picture. This international quality mark certifies the highest standards in athlete care and rehabilitation.
Dr Emanuele Brotto, Medical Director of the Centre, illustrated the importance of early diagnosis and ultrasound imaging in assessing ligament injuries. Drawing on his experience as team doctor for Hellas Verona FC and his expertise in ultrasound-guided injections, Dr Brotto emphasised how a personalised approach is fundamental to therapeutic success: “Every athlete is unique and requires a tailored pathway, taking into account not only clinical aspects but also sporting objectives and recovery timescales.”
From pitch to gym: the complete rehabilitation pathway
Matteo Azzini, Head of Rehabilitation at Isokinetic Verona, presented modern functional rehabilitation methodologies applied to ankle sprains. With over ten years’ experience and specialisation in re-injury prevention and movement analysis, Azzini coordinates the Centre’s team of rehabilitation specialists, ensuring personalised protocols that integrate gym, pool and field work.
“Modern rehabilitation is not limited to recovering range of movement and strength,” explained Azzini. “We work on neuromuscular control, proprioception and sport-specific movement biomechanics, preparing the athlete to manage the risk situations they may encounter during competition. Our experience with elite athletes enables us to apply evidence-based protocols to amateur sportspeople as well.”
Isokinetic: a centre of excellence serving the Verona area
Alessio Guandalini, Local Director of the Centre since 2016, concluded the meeting by emphasising the Verona facility’s commitment to ensuring the highest quality of care: “In ten years leading the Centre, we have built a cohesive and highly specialised team. FIFA recognition and collaboration with centres of excellence such as Dr Iacono enable us to offer patients in Verona international-standard treatment, whether they are professional athletes or amateur sportspeople.”
Prevention and sporting health culture
The “Health, Science and Sport” event confirms itself as a fundamental appointment for spreading awareness of correct sports injury management in the Verona area. Telearena’s presence testifies to the local community’s interest in these topics and the importance of raising awareness amongst athletes, coaches and families about the appropriate approach to sports injuries.
Ankle sprain, whilst often considered a “minor” injury, requires attention and expertise to avoid long-term complications. The key message of the evening was clear: relying on specialised centres, with multidisciplinary teams and international recognition such as FIFA status, makes the difference between complete recovery and chronic instability that can compromise sporting activity.
Isokinetic Centre Verona, FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, continues its commitment to athlete care and rehabilitation, offering a complete pathway that integrates the most advanced medical, surgical and rehabilitation expertise. For information on ankle sprain treatment pathways or to book a specialist assessment, please contact the Centre.
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