Effect of Core Stability Training With Foot Exercises in Chronic Ankle Instability Patients

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

conventional physical therapy: Stretching the gastrocnemius and soleus muscle (30 s) of three repetitions, three sets of strengthening exercises of ankle musculature, using Thera Band resistance (ten repetitions in each set), and balance training exercises: First, standing on one leg with eyes open, later will be progressed to eyes closed with 60 s hold for two repetitions will be given along with balance board exercises and double-leg and single-leg stances

Core stability training: The program is structured in three phases over six weeks. The first phase (1-2 weeks) focuses on abdominal drawing-in maneuvers to activate the transverses abdominis and lumbar multifidus muscles, with participants palpating the contractions for feedback. The second phase (3-4 weeks) integrates coordinated cocontraction of both muscles alongside upper and lower limb movements in various positions such as lying, sitting, standing, and quadruped. The third phase (5-6 weeks) emphasizes core activation during functional activities, including sit-to-stand, wall squats, and lunges, incorporating three sets of ten repetitions while maintaining the final position for 10 seconds in each exercise.

intrinsic foot muscle exercises: In this program, participants will engage in four exercises targeting the intrinsic foot muscles (IFMs): short-foot exercise, toe spread out, hallux extension, and lesser-toe extension. For the first two weeks, exercises will be done while sitting; during weeks three and four, they will shift to standing; and in weeks five and six, the exercises will be performed while standing on one leg.

Study summary

This study aims to investigate the effects of various treatments on lumbar and ankle proprioception, balance, and foot function in patients with chronic ankle instability. The objectives include assessing the combined effects of core stability training and intrinsic foot muscle exercises with conventional therapy, the impact of core stability training alone, the effects of intrinsic foot muscle exercises in conjunction with conventional treatment, and the outcomes of conventional therapy alone. Additionally, the study will compare the effectiveness of these different treatment protocols.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Assessment of balance — At baseline and after 6 weeks
  The study employs the Biodex Balance System to assess dynamic control using the Limits of Stability test. This test measures the maximum angle from vertical that an individual can achieve without losing balance, with normal limits of stability parameters set at eight degrees anterior, four degrees posterior, and 16 degrees laterally. Participants perform the test, aiming to shift their weight toward blinking targets on a screen while avoiding handrail support unless necessary. Two trials per participant are conducted, with results detailing test duration and overall performance percentage, where a score of 100% indicates precise movement towards targets.

Trial sites (1)

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