Utilising Xsens Gait Analysis to Improve Functional Outcomes in Chronic Ankle Instability: A Multifaceted...

Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is a common consequence of lateral ankle sprains, resulting in persistent pain, instability, and functional limitations. This case report investigates the effectiveness of a physiotherapy intervention for a 25-year-old female patient with CAI, marked by recurrent ankle sprains and persistent symptoms despite prior conservative treatments. The patient exhibited swelling, pain, and instability, with clinical assessment revealing significant ligament laxity and a high longitudinal arch in both feet. A comprehensive physiotherapy regimen focused on core, hip, and ankle muscle strength, dynamic balance, and proprioception was implemented, incorporating ankle stretches, joint mobilization, core strengthening, hip strengthening, and dynamic balance exercises on unstable surfaces. Pre-rehabilitation outcome measures included a numeric pain rating of 7/10, a Cumberland ankle instability tool (CAIT) score of 15/30, and a foot and ankle outcome score (FAOS) of 63%. Gait analysis revealed a speed of 0.79 m/s, a cadence of 99.24 steps/min, and a distance of 14.23 meters. Post-intervention, significant improvements were observed: pain reduced to 1/10, the CAIT score increased to 28/30, and the FAOS rose to 89%. Gait parameters also improved, with speed increasing to 0.90 m/s and distance to 15 meters. This case underscores the effectiveness of a targeted physiotherapy approach in managing CAI, highlighting the importance of a multi-dimensional rehabilitation strategy to enhance functional outcomes and reduce associated symptoms of CAI.