EFFECTS OF ACCELERATED REHABILITATION EXERCISE AFTER MBO ON ANKLE FUNCTION AND STRENGTH IN ANKLE INSTABILITY

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Taekwondo athletes with lateral chronic ankle instability (LCAI) may experience difficulties with proprioception and ankle muscle strength. After surgery, a conventional rehabilitation exercise program can be ineffective, as it may not restore proprioception or muscle strength and, thus, result in minimal improvement. Objective: This study aimed to assess the effects of an ARE program following MBO on the proprioception, isokinetic strength, and endurance of ankle. Methods: Thirty athletes diagnosed with LCAI underwent MBO. They were divided into the ARE group (n=15) and the control group (CON, n=15). The ARE group performed early ARE exercises six times per week for 4 weeks. The parameters applied to test ankle muscle strength were angular speed of 30°/sec and 180°/sec (inversion: Inv. and eversion: Eve., respectively). Proprioception was measured as being able to sense a joint position of 15° of Inv. and 5° of Eve. Results: Significant differences were observed between the ARE and CON groups in ankle strength 30°/sec (Inv.: p<0.001, Eve.: p<0.001), 180°/sec (Inv.: p<0.001, Eve.: p<0.001), and proprioception at 15° (Inv.: p<0.001) and 5° (Eve.: p<0.001). Conclusions: We recorded significant short-term effects from early ARE in Taekwondo athletes with LCAI after MBO. The results provide reference data for the sports rehabilitator or ATC in evaluating the rehabilitation phase and informing patients about expectations after MBO in terms of performance status and the timing of return to sports. Level of evidence III; Therapeutic studies–Investigation of treatment outcomes - Case-control Study.