Collaborative Ankle Support Trial (CAST)

This randomised controlled trial assessed 584 patients with severe ankle sprain from eight emergency departments across the UK. Patients were provided with a mechanical support within the first 3 days of attendance by a trained health-care professional, and given advice on reducing swelling and pain. Functional outcome was measured over 9 months. The primary outcome was quality of ankle function at 3 months.

It was found that patients who received the below-knee cast had a more rapid recovery than those given the tubular compression bandage. Clinically important benefits were noted at 3 months in quality of ankle function with the below-knee cast compared with the bandage (mean difference 9%) as well as in pain, symptoms and activity.

The trial was led by Professor Sallie Lamb at the University of Warwick.

Read more about the trial in The Lancet.