Ankle range of motion and dynamic balance in recreational Sepak Takraw players with and without ankle injury - a comparative study

Abstract

Background and Study Aim. Sepak Takraw (ST) is considered Malaysia's national sport, and the nature of this sport requires players to be sufficiently acrobatic. Therefore, players were expected to jump and regain their balance, challenging their dynamic balance (DB). Nonetheless, range of motion (ROM) is closely related to balance. Hence, this study aimed to compare recreational ST players' ankle ROM and DB differences with and without ankle injuries.
 Material and Methods. The cross-sectional study in which 30 participants were assigned purposively according to players with an ankle injury (n=15) and without ankle injury (n=15) based on the position statement of the International Ankle Consortium (IAC). One time ankle Range of Motion and Dynamic balance was measured using a universal goniometer and Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT), respectively, for both groups.
 Results. Independent T-test was performed to identify the significant differences (p<0.05) of SEBT and ROM between the non-injured leg and injured leg within the injured group to the non-injured group. Ankle eversion and dorsiflexion between the injured and non-injured groups did not show any significant difference with p=0.35 & p=0.53, respectively. As for SEBT, only posteromedial and medial of the injured leg did not show a significant difference p>0.05. All other ankles ROM and the SEBT score demonstrated a statistically significant difference p<0.05.
 Conclusions. ROM and DB training/rehabilitation should be incorporated to all the injured group ST sports players regardless of which leg is affected to optimize ankle function and the game performance.