Effect of different balance training programs on postural control in chronic ankle instability: a randomized controlled trial.

Background: Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is a common sequence of ankle sprain. Conservative treatment of CAI is currently accepted as a primary mean of managing the condition and preventing of recurrence.

Objectives: The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the effect of Weight-bearing Exercise for Better Balance (WEBB) program and unilateral balance training exercises on postural control in females with CAI.

Methods: Thirty-five females with CAI participated in this study. The participants' mean values of age, body mass, height, and body mass index were 21.76 ± 1.96 y, 64.82 ± 9.37 kg, 161.85 ± 7.24 cm, and 24.76 ± 3.76 kg/m², respectively. They were randomly assigned into three groups: experimental group A (n = 13) who received WEBB program, experimental group B (n = 12) who received unilateral balance training, and control group C (n = 10) using statistical random tables. Balance parameters were measured for all participants via Biodex Balance System (BBS) before and after four weeks of balance training. They included overall stability index (OASI), antero-posterior stability index (APSI), and medio-lateral stability index (MLSI).

Results: There was a significant improvement in the post testing mean values of OASI and APSI, compared with the pre testing values in both experimental groups (A and B). There was no significant difference between the pre and post testing mean values of MLSI in the experimental group (A).

Conclusions: Both WEBB program and unilateral balance training have positive effects on postural control in females with CAI.