Balance capabilities after lateral ankle trauma and intervention: a meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Biomechanics
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Lateral ankle sprains are common, yet the impact on postural control remains debated.
• The effectiveness of balance training for individuals with a history of ankle trauma is unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To perform a meta-analysis on the effects of lateral ankle trauma on postural control.
• To evaluate how balance training influences postural control in acute and chronic lateral ankle trauma.

Main Methods:

• A meta-analysis of 37 studies was conducted.
• Studies were categorized into those examining postural control independently and those administering balance training interventions.
• Hedges' g effect sizes were calculated, and moderator variables were explored.

Main Results:

• A significant impairment in postural stability was found in individuals with a history of ankle injury (ES = 0.492).
• Both acute (ES = 0.419) and chronic (ES = 0.570) lateral ankle trauma negatively affected balance.
• Balance training demonstrated a significant improvement in postural control (ES = -0.857).

Conclusions:

• Postural control deficits are evident following lateral ankle trauma.
• Balance training is an effective intervention for improving postural control after both acute and chronic ankle injuries.
• Further research is needed to optimize balance training protocols and investigate preventative effects.