Effects of Ankle Control Training Combined with NMES on Foot Function and Balance in a Healthy Adult: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Purpose This study was to investigate the effects of ankle control training combined with neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) on foot function and balance in a healthy adult. Methods Eight healthy people were selected for the study. The intervention was applied the NMES on gastrocnemius (GCM) in upright standing. Ankle control training was combined with NMES. The intervention was performed for 30 minutes a day, 5 times a week, for four weeks. Ankle Range of Motion (ROM), Knee to Wall Test (KWT), Foot Pressure (FP), and Surface Electromyography (sEMG) were used to measure foot function. and Sway Index (SI) was used to measure balance. Results The intervention group showed a statistically significant increase in ankle ROM (p<.05) and KWT (p<.05). FP (p<.05) and sEMG (p<.05) show a statistically significant change. SI show a statistically significant decrease except when standing on a firm pad with eyes open. Conclusion Ankle control training combined with NMES was effective in foot function and balance.