Effect of 6-Week Unilateral Balance Training on Nerve and Muscle Control in Athletes Aged 18-25 with Chronic Ankle Instability

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating chronic ankle instability CAI in athletes, a condition often resulting from repeated ankle sprains that affect neuromuscular control such as proprioception and strength. Damage to ankle ligaments and nerves may alter the nervous system, causing balance and joint stability problems. The study aims to explore how unilateral balance training might improve control at spinal and brain levels through a process called cross-education. The study involves a 6-week structured balance training program consisting of seven exercises focused on balance and hop stabilization. Participants with unilateral CAI will be randomly assigned to one of three groups training on the stable ankle, training on the unstable ankle, or no intervention. This approach helps researchers understand the effects of the training on both the injured and uninjured sides. Participants will be evaluated at the start and end of the 8-week intervention period using assessments of proprioception, brain stimulation, and reflexes. Additional measures include questionnaires on ankle instability and foot and ankle function. The study monitors changes in static and dynamic balance and neural excitability to determine how the training impacts ankle stability and control.

Spinal and Supraspinal Control in Chronic Ankle Instability