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Updated: Apr 21, 2026
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Evaluating Postural Control and Lower-extremity Muscle Activation in Individuals with Chronic Ankle Instability
Published on: September 18, 2020
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The Impact of Chronic Ankle Instability on Functional and Perceived Single-leg Balance Control
Camden Hutchinson1, Kobe Roberson1, Jordan Alexander1
1Department of Physical Therapy, Angelo State University, San Angelo, TX, USA.
International Journal of Exercise Science
|April 20, 2026
Summary
Individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI) performed similarly to healthy peers on balance tests. However, those without CAI reported greater perceived stability, suggesting ankle integrity may not significantly impact overall balance control.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sports Medicine
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is a common condition affecting many individuals.
- Understanding the impact of CAI on balance and perceived stability is crucial for rehabilitation and injury prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare balance test performance and perceived stability between individuals with and without CAI.
- To investigate correlations between ankle stability measures and balance outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Fifty-one participants were grouped based on the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) score.
- Participants completed four balance tests: Y-Balance Test (YBT), Athletic Single-Leg Stability Test (ASLST), Time-in-Balance Test, and Side Hop Test.
- Perceived stability was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) after each test.
Main Results:
- Participants with CAI demonstrated significantly poorer ankle stability (p < .001).
- No significant differences in physical performance were found for the Time-in-Balance, Side Hop, ASLST, or YBT.
- Participants without CAI reported significantly higher perceived stability on the ASLST and YBT (p = .026, p = .040).
- Correlation analyses revealed weak relationships between CAIT scores and physical or perceived stability measures.
Conclusions:
- Ankle integrity may not be a primary determinant of overall single-leg balance control in healthy young adults.
- Despite similar physical performance, individuals with CAI experience reduced perceived stability.
- Further research is needed to explore the complex relationship between ankle function and balance.
