Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 9, 2025
Evaluating Postural Control and Lower-extremity Muscle Activation in Individuals with Chronic Ankle Instability
Published on: September 18, 2020
Balance, strength and physical activity after ankle sprain: Comparison between children with chronic ankle
Thitirat Suphasubtrakul1, Raweewan Lekskulchai1, Chutima Jalayondeja1
1Faculty of Physical Therapy, Mahidol University, 999 Phuttamonthon 4 Road, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom, 73170, Thailand.
Objective:
The aim of this study was to compare muscle strength, balance, and physical activity between children with chronic ankle instability and copers.
Design:
Cross-sectional study.
Setting:
Pediatric Physical Therapy laboratory.
Participants:
Children aged between 7 and 12 years old from regular schools who had a history of unilateral ankle sprain.
Main Outcome Measures:
Lower extremity strength, Static and dynamic standing balance, and Level of physical activity.
Results:
Fifteen children with chronic ankle instability and 15 copers were recruited. Demographic data showed no differences between group except for sex and the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool-Youth (CAITY) score. Children with CAI had a significantly lower score during the standing long jump test (p < 0.05), poorer performance of single leg stance test (p < 0.001) and Y-Balance test in the anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral directions (p < 0.05) when compared to copers. Total METs per week was significantly higher in the copers (p < 0.05).
Conclusion:
Children with chronic ankle instability exhibited weaker lower limb strength, poorer static and dynamic standing balance, and participate in less physical activity compared to those in a coper group which may have future negative health consequences. Knowledge about the differences between the two groups may provide guidance for physical educators and physical therapists. (200 words).
