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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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Rehabilitation for Chronic Ankle Instability With or Without Destabilization Devices: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Luke Donovan1, Joseph M Hart2,3, Susan A Saliba2
1Department of Kinesiology, University of Toledo, OH; Departments of.
Journal of Athletic Training
|March 3, 2016
Summary
Adding ankle destabilization devices to rehabilitation did not improve outcomes for chronic ankle instability (CAI). Both device and no-device groups showed similar gains in function and strength, indicating impairment-based rehabilitation is key.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Rehabilitation Science
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is characterized by neuromuscular deficits and altered movement patterns.
- Ankle destabilization devices may enhance lower extremity muscle activity and improve function in CAI patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of a 4-week rehabilitation program with and without destabilization devices for patients with CAI.
- To assess effects on self-reported function, range of motion (ROM), strength, and balance.
Main Methods:
- Randomized controlled trial with 26 participants diagnosed with CAI.
- Intervention involved 4 weeks of supervised, impairment-based progressive rehabilitation, with one group using destabilization devices.
- Outcomes measured included self-reported function (Foot and Ankle Ability Measure), ankle ROM, strength, and balance (Star Excursion Balance Test, single-limb balance).
Main Results:
- No significant differences were found between the device and no-device groups across all measured variables.
- Both groups demonstrated substantial improvements in self-reported function and ankle strength.
Conclusions:
- Incorporating destabilization devices did not yield superior results compared to traditional rehabilitation methods for CAI.
- Impairment-based progressive rehabilitation alone effectively improved clinical outcomes for individuals with CAI.
