A scoring scale for symptom evaluation after ankle fracture.

A scoring system for evaluating symptoms after ankle fractures is presented. It is tested against (1) a linear analogue scale; (2) the limitation in range of motion in loaded dorsal extension; (3) the presence of osteoarthritis; and (4) the presence of dislocations on radiographs. It correlates well with these four parameters, which are considered to summarize the results after this type of injury, and is therefore considered to assess the symptoms in an objective way. The scoring system is recommended for scientific investigations, as even minor subjective differences in disability experienced by the patient are significantly separated. The use of this system will simplify the comparison of results presented by different authors.