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More than half of individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI) experience lingering pain from a previous injury. However, there is little empirical evidence investigating the role pain has on health-related quality of life (HRQL). The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to compare physical and psychological HRQL between CAI individuals with and without pain. Group comparisons demonstrated that CAI individuals with pain displayed a lower physical and mental HRQL than those without pain. In addition, CAI individuals with pain reported greater injury-related fear. These findings suggest that persistent pain compounds the negative effect that ankle joint instability has on physical and mental HRQL outcomes. Therefore, conservative therapies should consider multimodal approaches rather than focusing on joint stability alone.

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are important for capturing patients’ perspectives on quality of life and aiding in provision of whole-person patient care; yet, PROs are not routinely used in athletic training practice. We investigated the athletic trainers’ perceptions of using PROs after they had completed a required PRO implementation program. Athletic trainers had positive perceptions after integrating PROs into clinical practice. Barriers associated with PRO use may be improved with a support structure that requires accountability and provides resources such as reminders and professional development to recognize ways that PROs can be used to improve patient care.

Single-task assessments may not identify lingering effects following a concussion that may be detected under dual-task (DT) paradigms. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a novel DT paradigm and concussion history on gait and cognitive performance. Hockey and rugby club college athletes (n = 26) completed a box drill and the color and word Stroop test under single task and DT. Distance ambulated around the box, response rate, and accuracy were recorded to calculate dual-task cost. Mean comparisons and linear mixed-effects regression models were performed. Compared to athletes with no concussion history, those with a history had a greater motor than cognitive dual-task cost and were 3.15% less accurate in Stroop responses (p < .01). Athletes walked 0.72-m shorter distance under DT compared to single task (p = .04). A multidirectional, low-tech DT assessment may highlight long-term motor and cognitive deficits among athletes with a concussion history, which will provide valuable information to prepare and track performance within an athletic season.

The lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, and ally or asexual cultural competence has become a point of emphasis in patient care in the profession of athletic training. The purpose of this study was to determine the level of cultural competence (CC) in athletic trainers (ATs) compared with other health care providers when treating lesbian/gay (L/G) patients as well as at which sexual orientation and gender demonstrated greater CC in L/G patients by using the Gay Affirmative Practice Scale. Health care providers include physicians, nurses, and mental health counselors (MHC). Statistical analysis comparing the occupations, sexual orientations, and gender, each in one-way analysis of variances, (including nonparametric modifications) demonstrated significant results for occupation, χ²(8) = 69.888, p < .05 and sexual orientation χ²(3) = 22.250, p < .05, indicating post hoc analyses. Post hoc demonstrated significance in occupation (AT and MHC, AT and nursing, and MHC and nursing) and sexual orientation (heterosexual and L/G). The result of these analyses provides evidence that ATs have less CC when caring for L/G patients compared with MHC and nursing. Finally, L/G providers demonstrate a greater CC than their counterparts, when caring for L/G patients.

Clinical Scenario: Running injuries are common in runners. The use of maximal cushioned shoes (MAX) has been suggested as a preventive measure for reducing impact loading and thus running-related injuries. Clinical Question: Do maximalist running shoes reduce impact loading compared to traditional shoes in runners? Summary of Key Findings: A search was performed for articles exploring MAX on impact loading in runners. Five articles were included in this critically appraised topic. All were case-controlled laboratory studies that compared the MAX to a traditional running shoe. None of the studies found a reduction in impact loading with use of the MAX. Clinical Bottom Line: Based on five case-controlled studies, a MAX does not reduce impact loading on level surfaces or downhill running. Based on mixed results, the MAX may increase impact forces during level and downhill running. Future research should include randomized controlled trials that assess impact forces after the runner has adapted to the MAX and after running ultradistances. Strength of Recommendation: In agreement with the Center of Evidence-Based Medicine, the consistent results from five Level III intervention studies designate that there is Level C evidence that MAX do not reduce impact loading during a single running trial.

Clinical Scenario: Athletic trainers should be aware of how physical activity may influence the risk of nocturnal hypoglycemia in adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Clinical Question: Does the timing and intensity of physical activity affect the occurrence and risk of nocturnal hypoglycemia in adolescents with T1D? Results of the Search: Four studies meeting the inclusion criteria were found and included in the appraisal. Three studies were prospective observational cohorts, and one was a randomized case-crossover study. Clinical Bottom Line: Adolescents with T1D may be at greater risk of nocturnal hypoglycemia after performing 30–60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity during the late afternoon or evening. Implications: Athletic trainers should educate adolescents with T1D and their parents about the risk of nocturnal hypoglycemia after MVPA, and work in collaboration with the diabetes care physician to ensure prevention techniques are included in the patient'’s diabetes care plan. Level of Evidence: Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy Grade B.