Protocol for Systematic Review of Rehabilitation Management for Ankle Impingement Syndrome: Evidence Synthesis and Clinical Implications from Diagnosis to Prevention

Ankle Impingement Syndrome (AIS) affects approximately 40% of individuals after ankle sprain and often leads to chronic pain and functional limitation, while evidence-based rehabilitation pathways for AIS remain fragmented in clinical practice. This systematic review aims to systematically synthesize the latest clinical evidence and establish an evidence-based rehabilitation framework for AIS from diagnosis to prevention. Review Objective and Research Questions Primary Objective: To systematically evaluate the latest evidence on AIS rehabilitation management from diagnosis to prevention. Secondary Objectives: To assess the diagnostic accuracy of different imaging modalities for various AIS subtypes (anterior/posterior/lateral). To compare the short-term and long-term efficacy of non-operative rehabilitation interventions (e.g., exercise therapy, PRP injection, balance training) for AIS in terms of pain relief, functional improvement and recurrence reduction. To establish population-tailored rehabilitation protocols for AIS high-risk groups (e.g., elite athletes, ballet dancers, elderly adults). To evaluate the public health value and application potential of AIS prevention strategies in different populations. Expected Outcomes A comprehensive evidence synthesis of AIS rehabilitation management, clarifying the diagnostic performance of advanced imaging techniques (AI-assisted MRI, dynamic ultrasound) and the efficacy of core non-operative interventions. An evidence-based three-pillar framework for AIS management (precision diagnosis, effective intervention, population-tailored protocols) to guide clinical practice. Population-specific rehabilitation and prevention recommendations for AIS, providing evidence-based tools for public health chronic pain control and sports-related injury prevention. Identification of existing evidence gaps in AIS rehabilitation research, and proposal of key directions for future high-quality clinical studies.