Background: The aim of this study was to assess the effects of functional training (FT) on pain, function, and performance in elite male taekwondo players with CMLBP. Method: 27 elite male taekwondo players (mean ± standard deviation: age 24.4 ± 4.9 years, body mass 75.7 ± 15.1 kg, height 181.4 ± 7.8 cm) were allocated to two experimental (n = 15) and control (n = 12) groups. The eight-week FT was divided into four distinct phases for the subjects of the experimental group. Variables of pain and function were assessed by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), respectively. The movement time of Ap Douliou Chagi kick (MTAK) and speed of Ap Douliou Chagi kick (SAK) was used for the variable of performance. Results: Considering the results of pre-test before the implementation of the scores protocol, after FT intervention, VAS (p = 0.004), ODI (p = 0.005), MTAK on the right leg (p = 0.029) and the left leg (p = 0.013) decreased and SAK on both legs (p = 0.000) increased significantly in comparison with the control group. Conclusion: It is assumed that FT can reduce the pain intensity and improve the function and performance in taekwondo players.
Introduction: Chronic ankle instability (CAI) resulting from repetitive sprains can influence the performance in volleyball players. So, conservative strategies are important to manage such conditions. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of strengthening/proprioceptive exercises (SPE) and Kinesiotaping ® (KT) on volleyball players with CAI. Materials and Methods: Thirty-eight volleyball players (Mean±SD, Age: 23.0±2.7 years; Playing years: 5.6±2.2 years) were divided into three groups including SPE (N=13), KT (N=13), and control (N=12). The Thera-Band was used for strengthening exercises and proprioceptive exercises were followed in closed kinetic chain exercises for 8 weeks. The KT method was administrated for peroneus muscles and also tibiofibular ligament. The participants were evaluated by Foot and Ankle Ability Measure, Single-leg Hopping test, and Heel raise test at baseline and after completing the interventions. Results: Both the SPE and KT can significantly increase foot and ankle ability and improve performance in volleyball players with CAI (P<0.001). However, a combination method of treatment is more effective compared to using exercise therapy alone. Conclusion: A combination method involving the SPE and KT can be beneficial to improve the ability and performance and achieving favorable results in volleyball players with CAI.
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