Acute Effect of Graded Motor Imagery on Ankle Rehabilitation: A Pilot Study

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

graded motor imagery: The Graded Motor Imagery (GMI) program will be applied six consecutive days nd will consist of three progressive stages: Laterality Training: Participants will perform right-left ankle discrimination tasks using validated foot and ankle images. Accuracy and response time will be recorded. Motor Imagery: Participants will mentally rehearse ankle movements such as dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, inversion, and eversion without performing the motion. Imagery tasks will progress from simple movements to functional patterns based on tolerance. Mirror Therapy: A mirror will be placed in the midsagittal plane, allowing participants to view the reflection of the non-affected ankle while performing movements. The visual illusion of normal movement is intended to improve motor control and proprioception.

Study summary

The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the immediate and short-term effects of the Graded Motor Imagery (GMI) method on individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI). In this context, the effects of the Graded Motor Imagery intervention on pain level, muscle stiffness, muscle strength, functional performance, and subjective instability level will be investigated. Additionally, these effects will be comparatively analyzed with an age- and sex-matched control group consisting of healthy individuals.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Subjective Instability (CAIT) — baseline
  A valid-reliable questionnaire that questions the perceived instability in daily life and sports activities. Clinical Significance: ≥ 3 point increase is considered clinically significant
• Subjective Instability (CAIT) — 1-week post-intervention
  A valid-reliable questionnaire that questions the perceived instability in daily life and sports activities. Clinical Significance: ≥ 3 point increase is considered clinically significant
• Ground Reaction Force & Static Balance (ForceDecks) — baseline
  Device: ForceDecks dual force platform. 1. Single-Leg Jump Test\* Values: Net vertical ground reaction force (N·kg-¹), flight time (ms), asymmetry (%). 2. Single-Leg Static Balance\* Values: Total sway path (mm), ellipse area (mm²). Clinical Importance:\* Captures short-term changes in neuromuscular control and explosive strength in a detailed manner.
• Ground Reaction Force & Static Balance (ForceDecks) — 1-week post-intervention
  Device: ForceDecks dual force platform. 1. Single-Leg Jump Test\* Values: Net vertical ground reaction force (N·kg-¹), flight time (ms), asymmetry (%). 2. Single-Leg Static Balance\* Values: Total sway path (mm), ellipse area (mm²). Clinical Importance:\* Captures short-term changes in neuromuscular control and explosive strength in a detailed manner.

Trial sites (1)

More Istanbul University - Cerrahpasa trials in Turkey

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