A clinical trial was set up as a pilot study to investigate the efficacy of ice therapy for the treatment of patients with inversion ankle sprain injuries. The subjects were 30 patients, male and female, aged 13 to 56-years-old, who were referred to the physiotherapy department with an acute ankle sprain and no other associated conditions. The patients were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups -- "ice" or "no ice". Those in the "ice" group (n = 14) had an ice pack secured to the lateral aspect of their ankle for 20 minutes, followed by a standard treatment programme, while those in the "no ice" group (n = 16) received the treatment programme only. Pain, swelling and level of function were assessed and recorded. Data was collected until the patient reached a pre-determined level of function. Although many therapists use ice therapy as a treatment modality for acute ankle sprain injuries, no significant differences were noted between the two groups with regard to pain, swelling or speed of recovery.

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