Effects of Dual-Task-Based Balance Exercise on Enhancing Single-Limb Static and Dynamic Balance Performance in...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric sports medicine
• Rehabilitation science
• Motor control

Background:

• Ankle sprains are common in children, potentially leading to long-term balance deficits.
• Impaired balance increases the risk of re-injury and affects athletic performance.
• Balance training is crucial for recovery and prevention in pediatric populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of dual-task versus single-task balance training on static and dynamic balance in male children with a history of ankle sprains.
• To evaluate the impact of cognitive dual tasks integrated into balance exercises.
• To establish optimal training strategies for improving balance in this demographic.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-experimental design involving 66 male children (mean age 9.34 years) with prior ankle sprains.
• Participants were allocated to three groups: dual-task balance training, single-task balance training, or a control group (no training).
• Balance was assessed using the Stork test (static) and Y balance test (dynamic) pre- and post-intervention.

Main Results:

• Dual-task balance training significantly improved static balance compared to single-task training and the control group (p < .05).
• Both dual-task and single-task training groups showed significant improvements in dynamic balance over the control group (p < .05).
• No significant difference in dynamic balance improvement was found between dual-task and single-task training methods (p > .05).

Conclusions:

• Balance exercises incorporating cognitive dual tasks are highly effective for enhancing static balance in male children with a history of ankle sprains.
• Both dual-task and single-task balance training benefit dynamic balance, but dual-tasking offers superior static balance improvements.
• Coaches and physiotherapists should consider integrating dual-task balance training into rehabilitation and training programs for pediatric athletes with ankle sprains.