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Fibular position in individuals with self-reported chronic ankle instability
Tricia J Hubbard1, Jay Hertel, Paul Sherbondy
1Department of Kinesiology, University of North Carolina, Charlotte 28223-0001, USA. thubbar1@uncc.edu
The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy
|February 24, 2006
Summary
Individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI) exhibit a more anterior fibular position. This study investigated the fibular alignment in CAI patients, finding a significant difference compared to healthy controls.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Biomechanics
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Chronic ankle instability (CAI) may be linked to fibular positional faults.
- Objective evidence supporting this link is currently limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the distal fibula's position in individuals diagnosed with chronic ankle instability (CAI).
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 30 individuals with unilateral CAI and 30 healthy controls.
- Fluoroscopic lateral imaging was used to measure the anterior fibular position relative to the tibia.
- Nonparametric statistics analyzed the relationship between fibular position and CAI status.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant difference in fibular position was observed between CAI and control groups (P = .045).
- The involved ankles of individuals with CAI showed a significantly more anterior fibular position compared to their uninvolved limb and the control group's ankles (P = .006).
Conclusions:
- Subjects with unilateral CAI demonstrated a significantly more anteriorly positioned fibula relative to the tibia.
- Further research is needed to determine if this anterior fibular position is a cause or consequence of chronic ankle instability.