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Updated: May 7, 2026
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Evaluating Postural Control and Lower-extremity Muscle Activation in Individuals with Chronic Ankle Instability
Published on: September 18, 2020
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Differences in clinician-oriented outcomes among controls, copers, and chronic ankle instability groups
Jessica E Plante1, Erik A Wikstrom
1Biodynamics Research Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28223, USA.
Summary
Clinician-oriented tests can identify some differences in chronic ankle instability (CAI) and copers compared to healthy individuals. However, not all outcome measures effectively distinguish between these groups, highlighting the need for specific assessments in ankle injury research.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Chronic ankle instability (CAI) affects active adults, impacting function.
- Identifying reliable outcome measures is crucial for assessing CAI and recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare clinician-oriented outcome measures between uninjured controls, copers, and individuals with CAI.
- To determine the sensitivity of various tests in differentiating these groups.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 25 adults with CAI, 21 copers, and 20 controls.
- Assessed range of motion, posterior talar glide, cutaneous sensation, dynamic balance (Star Excursion Balance Test), and muscular strength.
Main Results:
- The CAI group exhibited decreased dorsiflexion range of motion and posterior-medial balance compared to controls.
- Both CAI and copers showed reduced normalized dorsiflexion strength versus controls.
- Only the CAI group demonstrated normalized plantar flexion strength deficits.
Conclusions:
- Certain clinician-oriented outcome measures can detect differences among CAI, copers, and controls.
- Not all commonly used tests are equally effective in distinguishing functional deficits in CAI.
