Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 8, 2026
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Evaluating Postural Control and Lower-extremity Muscle Activation in Individuals with Chronic Ankle Instability
Published on: September 18, 2020
The Effects Of 6-week Balance Training on Corticospinal Excitability, Spinal Reflexive Excitability Modulation, and
Sunghoon Chung1, Jacob Freeman2, Jalanay Gray3
1Department of Allied Health, Kinesiology, and Sport Sciences, Cape Girardeau, MO, Southeast Missouri State University, USA.
Summary
Six weeks of balance training improved balance performance in individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI). This training also modulated central nervous system (CNS) excitability, restoring the neurosignature associated with better balance.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Science
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is linked to central nervous system (CNS) alterations and impaired balance.
- Balance training is crucial for CAI rehabilitation, necessitating assessment of CNS changes during recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of a 6-week balance training program on spinal reflexive excitability modulation, corticospinal excitability, and balance performance in individuals with CAI.
- To understand CNS adaptations following balance intervention in CAI.
Main Methods:
- Thirty participants with CAI were randomly assigned to a balance training (BAL) group or a control (CON) group.
- Spinal reflexive excitability (H-reflex) and corticospinal excitability (transcranial magnetic stimulation - TMS) were assessed.
- Static and dynamic balance were measured using center of pressure and start excursion balance tests (SEBT).
Main Results:
- The balance training group showed a significantly shorter cortical silent period (CSP) post-intervention compared to the control group.
- Spinal reflexive excitability modulation was significantly enhanced in the balance training group.
- Static balance performance significantly improved in the balance training group from baseline to post-testing.
Conclusions:
- A 6-week balance training program effectively restored the neurosignature in individuals with CAI.
- The training intervention led to significant improvements in both neurophysiological markers and overall balance performance in the CAI population.
