The Effects of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation on Ankle Stability and Static Balance in Young Adults with Chronic Ankle Instability

Objective: This study aimed to determine the effects of neuromuscular electrical Stimulation (NMES) on ankle stability and static balance in persons with chronic ankle instability (CAI). Design: A randomized controlled trial. Methods: This study recruited 45 individuals with ankle instability, of which five were excluded based on certain criteria. Hence, this study included 40 participants. The participants were randomized to the NMES (n=20) or short-foot exercise (SFE) (n=20) groups. The intervention was administered to each group thrice weekly for four weeks. NMES was performed by placing electrodes 1–2 cm behind the navicular tuberosity at a frequency of 30 Hz to stimulate the abductor hallucis muscle. In the SFE method, the head of the metatarsal is drawn toward the floor and heel. All participants were assessed using the Cumberland ankle instability tool (CAIT) and static balance pre- and post-intervention. Results: In the intragroup comparison, both groups showed significant improvements in CAIT and static balance (p<0.05). In the intergroup comparison, there was no significant difference found between both groups. Conclusions: The NMES can be as effective as SFE for ankle stability and static balance in young adults with CAI. Accordingly, we propose the application of NMESas an effective intervention method in patients with CAI who cannot apply SFE due to paralysis of part of the body.