Orthopedic News for Patients

THURSDAY, June 23, 2016 (HealthDay News) -- Many Americans have suffered through an ankle break or sprain, but new research suggests these injuries might have a larger effect on health.

The study, based on a survey of thousands of adults, found that people with injured ankles tend to have higher rates of disability and arthritis, heart or respiratory issues going forward.

The study can't prove cause-and-effect, but it points to the importance of proper rehabilitation after such injuries, the researchers said.

"What is concerning is these differences are presenting across the life span -- especially during the critical middle age years when our risk for these diseases begins to increase," said study author Phillip Gribble.