Assessments of Sensorimotor Deficits Used in Randomized Clinical Trials With Individuals With Ankle Sprains and Chronic Ankle Instability: A Scoping Review

Abstract

The main purpose of this scoping review was to summarize the most common tasks and outcome measures in randomized control trials (RCTs) used to assess sensorimotor function following ankle sprain and chronic ankle instability (CAI). We also aimed to summarize the description of inclusion criteria used in articles. We searched for RCTs published between 2008 and 2018 using the following databases: MEDLINE, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science. Eligible studies included participants of either sex who had had at least one ankle sprain with/without subsequent CAI. All articles assessed sensorimotor function. The tasks, outcome measures, and inclusion criteria were categorized, and frequencies of use in each category were calculated. Of 272 publications, 31 met the eligibility criteria. The most common task was single‐limb stance (58% of 31). The most common outcome measure was the posterior‐medial reach distance of the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) (13 of 16 articles, 81%). Different inclusion criteria for a history of ankle sprains or CAI were used. A wide range of sensorimotor assessments and inclusion criteria was used among studies involving individuals with a history of ankle sprain with or without CAI, which could make it difficult to compare and generalize study results. This scoping review provides a baseline for planning future studies exploring outcome measures to assess sensorimotor function of individuals with a history of ankle sprain with or without CAI.

Postural Control Deficits During Static Single-leg Stance in Chronic Ankle Instability: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

“…39,77 Given the controversy surrounding CAI-specific CoP parameters and test conditions, 3 authors with experience in kinesiology, orthopaedics, and physiatrics agreed a consensus on parameters of CoP sway as follows: (1) 4 categories of CoP parameters (sway amplitude, sway velocity, sway area, and time-to-boundary [TTB]); (2) 2 visual conditions (eyes open and eyes closed); (3) 3 sway directions were acknowledged (anterior-posterior [AP], medial-lateral [(ML], and total directions). 49 Detailed definitions and interpretations of these CoP parameters are summarized in Table 1.…”

“…1,26,39,46,67 In theory, different parameters and directions of CoP sway could reflect different postural characteristics and any reduction of visual input could intensify the difficulty in controlling posture. 39,49 The current study includes subgroup meta-analyses that address the nature of CAI-related postural deficits during static single-leg stance and clarify variations in testing methodologies to enhance knowledge regarding laboratory- and clinic-based CoP measurements for CAI patients.…”

“…55 Impaired postural control is a characteristic of CAI that has received a great deal of research attention. 49,74 Freeman et al 14 introduced the concept of functional ankle instability in the mid-1960s based on the diminished ability of CAI patients to maintain the single-leg stance (Romberg test). Subsequently, most updated theoretical models have highlighted postural deficits as a crucial determinant of CAI and its persistent symptoms.…”

“…The center of pressure (CoP) trajectory during static single-leg stance is measured using a stable force plate and is the usual method for assessment of postural control in CAI studies. 39,49 The CoP is the point where body mass is concentrated, and parameters derived from the CoP trajectory are used to indicate postural deficits (ie, larger CoP sway, worse postural control). 55 However, controversy exists as to whether postural deficits arising from unstable ankles are revealed through this test.…”

Applicability of the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool in Elite Volleyball Athletes: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study

“…Despite the common perception that ankle sprains are minor accidental events and quickly resolvable without long-term consequences, these injuries often lead to high rates of recurrence [ 1 ]. Sensorimotor deficits may persist for months or even years after the initial injury [ 2 , 3 ]. Recent studies highlight that the ankle is a body region subject to injuries in team sports such as volleyball, basketball, and soccer [ 4 ].…”