Associations Between Physical Function and Physical Activity in Individuals With Chronic Ankle Instability: An...

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Sports Medicine
• Physical Therapy

Background:

• Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is frequently associated with reduced physical activity (PA), potentially increasing sedentary behavior and chronic disease risk.
• The specific factors contributing to diminished PA in individuals with CAI are not well understood.
• This research investigates the relationship between physical function and PA in the CAI population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the associations between various physical function measures and physical activity (PA) levels in individuals diagnosed with chronic ankle instability (CAI).
• To identify specific physical function components that may influence PA in individuals with CAI.

Main Methods:

• Thirty participants with CAI underwent clinical assessments including range of motion (ROM), strength, balance, and functional performance.
• Physical activity was monitored for four weeks using activity trackers.
• Pearson correlations and backward selection linear regression were employed to analyze associations and develop a predictive model for PA.

Main Results:

• Distance walked and floors climbed correlated with eversion ROM (p=0.02, p=0.03).
• Sedentary minutes were associated with the Winter Bowel and Liver Transplant (WBLT) score (p<0.001).
• Light activity minutes were linked to dorsiflexion strength (p=0.04), while very active minutes correlated with balance and eversion ROM (p<0.01, p=0.04).
• Calories burned showed an association with inversion ROM (p=0.03).

Conclusions:

• Eversion ROM, inversion ROM, WBLT, balance, and dorsiflexion strength appear to be associated with different aspects of PA in individuals with CAI.
• Rehabilitation strategies for CAI could benefit from incorporating assessments and interventions targeting these specific physical function parameters to enhance PA levels.