The effect of 8-weeks proprioceptive exercise program in postural sway and isokinetic strength of ankle sprains of Tunisian athletes

Abstract

Proprioceptive training exercises can effectively stabilize an unstable ankle above for muscular and postural control. However, 8 weeks does not assess whether we have achieved maximum effect. In addition, we do not know to what extent these effects will continue over time. It would be interesting to later re-evaluate the athletes for the effect of this treatment, which is based on a proprioceptive training program on a year or more.

Analysis of acceleration time of ankle in long-distance runners and triathletes

“…7 The acceleration and deceleration times provide information on the neuromuscular condition and the velocity of regimentation of the muscle fibers. 7,11,22,23,24 So, deficits in these variables may suggest poor proprioception. 7,11,22 In our study, the acceleration and deceleration times were analyzed for plantar flexion (concentric and eccentric action) and dorsiflexion (concentric and eccentric action) in athlete groups.…”

“…7,11,22,23,24 So, deficits in these variables may suggest poor proprioception. 7,11,22 In our study, the acceleration and deceleration times were analyzed for plantar flexion (concentric and eccentric action) and dorsiflexion (concentric and eccentric action) in athlete groups. A somewhat surprising statistical difference was observed for concentric dorsiflexion: controls exhibited a significantly faster acceleration when compared to long distance runners.…”

“…Each set of 30 repetitions was performed to attain an angular speed of 180°/second, 22 with a rest of 10 seconds between sets. While the tests were being performed, constant standardized verbal encouragement was given, so that the individuals would maintain maximum force during the contractions.…”

“…31 Adequate proprioception of the ankle is essential for promoting dynamic and functional stability of the ankle in extreme sports, such as long distance running and triathlon. 22 It seems that deficits of the proprioceptive system are the main causes of muscle weakness and postural instability. 25 This should also result in poor protection of the ankle against the indiscriminate mechanisms and so result in injuries.…”

“…25 Few studies have used acceleration and deceleration times as variables during isokinetic evaluations. 7,11,22,23,24,26 Two of those studies addressed ankle and provide information about neuromuscular characteristics, 7,22 while the other studies analyzed other joints. 11,23,24,26 van Cingel et al 7 reported that subjects with chronic ankle instability showed prolonged acceleration times for the evertor muscles (concentric action) at 30°/s and 120°/s as well as for the invertor muscles (concentric action) at 120°/s, when compared with control subjects.…”