Comparison of Recent Studies on Rehabilitation of Chronic Ankle Instability: A Systematic Review

Comparison of Recent Studies on Rehabilitation of Chronic Ankle Instability: A Systematic Review

Background: There are many factors contributing to chronic ankle instability (CAI), but recently it has been reported that dynamic balance, peroneal reaction time, and eversion strength deficiency are highly related. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to find out whether the contributing factors of ankle instability were used in rehabilitation interventions and, if so, whether they were effective. Study design: Systematic review Methods: Relevant health databases, such as PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL and ScienceDirect, were searched. Systematic reviews were included if they fit the research question, and they were clearly defined by the search strategy criteria. Results: A total of 58 articles were retrieved and 19 articles fulfilled inclusion criteria. In duplicate counts, dynamic balance training (DBT) was used as an intervention in 15 studies, and strength training (ST) was used in 4 studies. There were also mixed forms of intervention that made it difficult to divide exercise methods. Conclusions: DBT and ST improved the ankle strength, balance, functional performance, and self-reported function of CAI patients. There was limited evidence that either DBT or ST was more effective in improving function in CAI patients.