Systematic ankle stabilization and the effect on performance

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Sports Medicine
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Ankle joint stabilization is vital for injury prevention.
• However, both insufficient and excessive stabilization can negatively impact function.
• Understanding the optimal level of ankle control is crucial for athletic performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of varying ankle and subtalar joint stabilization on athletic performance.
• To quantify changes in range of motion and obstacle course completion times under different stabilization conditions.

Main Methods:

• Six subjects completed an obstacle course under four shoe conditions with varying ankle stabilization.
• Ankle range of motion (sagittal and frontal planes) was measured using a modified Inman apparatus.
• Performance was assessed by obstacle course completion time.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in ankle eversion, flexion, and inversion were observed across shoe conditions.
• Increased stabilization led to a general decrease in ankle range of motion.
• Performance, measured by obstacle course time, significantly worsened with increased stabilization.

Conclusions:

• Systematic alterations in ankle and subtalar joint stabilization measurably impact performance.
• There is an optimal range of motion for ankle and subtalar joints for athletic tasks.
• Excessive ankle restriction negatively affects performance, highlighting the need for balanced stabilization.