AFP: American Family Physician Podcast Episode 244 -- December 2025 -- Part 2 AFP: American Family Physician
Dec 30, 2025
Discover essential insights on ankle sprain management, including effective initial care methods and the importance of bracing. Explore innovative treatments for axillary hyperhidrosis, revealing the efficacy of a new topical gel. Learn how to evaluate suspected dementia with critical screening tools and caregiver input. Understand how frailty scoring can predict hip fracture outcomes and assess the risk of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction using various risk tools. Plus, enjoy rapid-fire clinical answers covering a range of medical topics.
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Timing And Imaging For Ankle Sprains
- Do wait 4–7 days before a detailed exam of a lateral ankle sprain to get reliable findings like ATFL tenderness and positive anterior drawer.
- Do use Ottawa rules and order standard AP, lateral, mortise (weight-bearing if possible) x-rays when indicated to rule out fracture.
Treat And Rehabilitate Ankle Sprains
- Do protect the joint (5–10 days) then start early functional activity and targeted physical therapy focusing on balance, ROM, proprioception, and strength.
- Do prefer topical NSAIDs or acetaminophen and use semi-rigid braces over elastic wraps for better stability.
Prevent Recurrent Sprains
- Do use external support and 8–12 weeks of physical therapy to prevent recurrent sprains and wear braces during sports for up to 12 months.
- Do focus PT on joint position sense, ROM, and strength to reduce functional instability.