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Right to left differences in the ankle joint complex range of motion
D J Stefanyshyn1, J R Engsberg
1Human Performance Laboratory, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|May 1, 1994
Summary
Ankle range of motion symmetry between legs is not fully established, but this study suggests the uninjured ankle can serve as a benchmark for rehabilitation after injury. This finding aids in assessing ankle recovery.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Ankle rehabilitation often assumes symmetry between injured and uninjured limbs for range of motion and strength.
- The quantification of this assumed symmetry in ankle joint complex range of motion has not been previously established.
- Establishing contralateral limb symmetry is crucial for defining successful ankle injury rehabilitation outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and quantify potential differences in ankle joint complex range of motion between the right and left legs.
- To determine if the contralateral limb is a reliable measure for assessing ankle rehabilitation progress.
- To provide data supporting or refuting the use of contralateral limb symmetry in clinical ankle rehabilitation protocols.
Main Methods:
- Measured total ankle joint complex range of motion (ROM) in six degrees of freedom for both right and left legs.
- Utilized a specialized fixture to allow for comprehensive ROM measurements.
- Employed a four-camera video system for accurate recording and analysis of all ROM movements.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were found in total dorsiflexion-plantarflexion, eversion-inversion, or abduction-adduction ROM between the right and left legs.
- Individual abduction and adduction movements showed some directional differences, with the right foot tending towards more abduction and the left towards more adduction.
- Potential measurement device artifacts were noted as a possible explanation for the isolated abduction-adduction discrepancies.
Conclusions:
- The contralateral ankle joint complex appears to be a viable and reliable measure for establishing the restoration of total range of motion post-injury.
- The findings support the clinical practice of using the uninjured limb as a benchmark for ankle rehabilitation.
- While overall ROM is symmetrical, specific directional movements like abduction/adduction may warrant further investigation regarding inherent limb variations or measurement precision.