Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 29, 2025
Evaluating Postural Control and Lower-extremity Muscle Activation in Individuals with Chronic Ankle Instability
Published on: September 18, 2020
Ankle muscles activation and postural stability with Star Excursion Balance Test in healthy individuals
Dimitris N Karagiannakis1, Katerina I Iatridou1, Dimitris G Mandalidis1
1Sports Physical Therapy Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sports Science, School of Physical Education and Sports Science, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece.
The Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) reveals that ankle muscles, particularly the tibialis anterior (TA) and peroneus brevis (PB), are key to postural stability. Their activation levels during the SEBT are crucial for clinicians and sports specialists.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Neuromuscular Control
- Sports Science
Background:
- The ankle joint is vital for lower limb kinetic chain function and postural stability.
- Maintaining balance during bipedal and unipedal activities relies heavily on ankle neuromuscular control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess ankle neuromuscular control and postural stability during the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT).
- To correlate electromyography (EMG) activity of ankle muscles with center of pressure (CoP) displacement during SEBT.
Main Methods:
- Recorded EMG of tibialis anterior (TA), peroneus brevis (PB), medial (GM), and lateral (GL) gastrocnemius during SEBT.
- Measured anteroposterior (APd) and mediolateral (MLd) CoP displacements and plantar pressure distribution in 29 healthy adults.
Main Results:
- Tibialis anterior (TA) and peroneus brevis (PB) showed highest EMG activity, especially in posterior and lateral SEBT directions, correlating with reduced APd and increased reach.
- Anterior and medial SEBT directions showed opposite patterns for TA and PB activity.
- EMG of gastrocnemius muscles (GM, GL) and MLd of CoP did not significantly differ across SEBT directions.
Conclusions:
- Ankle neuromuscular control and postural stability in SEBT are significantly influenced by TA and PB activation.
- Findings emphasize the importance of TA and PB in SEBT performance for screening and rehabilitation.
