Neuromuscular Training vs Strength Training

Effect of Neuromuscular Training vs Strength Training in Chronic Ankle Instability

Chronic ankle instability is a complex condition. Limited mobility, perceived instability, and recurrent ankle sprains are common characteristics that reduce the quality of life in subjects who suffer chronic ankle instability. Neuromuscular training and strength training has been recommended in chronic ankle instability management interventions. However, there are contradictory findings on results when comparing neuromuscular training, strength training, and control group.

Participants were randomly assigned to the neuromuscular training group, strength training group, and control group with no intervention if participants met the inclusion criteria.

Neuromuscular training group. It consisted of a multi-station training with 6 exercises, increasing the difficulty progressively as the participants controlled the execution. The exercises were all performed barefoot and with the injured foot. These were a combination of standing and jumping exercises involving the injured ankle.

A strength training group was performed with resistance bands. The band was fastened to the unaffected ankle, while the participant was told to perform front and back pulls, as well as adduction and abduction movements with the affected ankle. Participants were told to control the ankle movement and to make it slow.

Control group received no intervention.

Inclusion criteria were consistent with recommendations made from International Ankle Consortium16 and were checked before the intervention:

• To have suffered the first sprain at least 6 months before the beginning of the study.
• Cumberland ankle instability score ≤24.
• To be physically active.

Exclusion criteria.

• Participants could not have suffered an acute sprain in the 6 previous weeks to the beginning of the study.
• History of recent ankle surgery.
• Epilepsy or previous seizures.