Effect of Functional Core Stability Training or Cognitive Training on Balance and Postural Control in Chronic Ankle Instability

Effect of Adding Functional Core Stability Training or Cognitive Training on Balance and Postural Control in Rehabilitation of Chronic Ankle Instability

The purpose of the study is to investigate dynamic core stability training versus cognitive training on balance, functional performance, postural control, ankle instability scores, ankle dorsiflexion range of motion, and mental workload in chronic ankle instability

Lateral ankle sprains (LAS) are prevalent in sports, with 40% leading to chronic ankle instability (CAI), impacting muscle coordination and balance, primarily controlled by the central nervous system (CNS). Core muscles play a vital role in stabilization and postural control, particularly for individuals with chronic ankle instability, because they significantly contribute to the risk of injury. Even with intact strength and balance, individuals with chronic ankle instability may re-injure when attention shifts, highlighting the need for dual-task training to improve postural control. Core stability training, which includes cognitive elements, has been shown to enhance muscle function and reduce instability. Training programs incorporating dual-task exercises have proven superior for improving joint position sense and postural control while addressing associated mental health issues in chronic ankle instability patients. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the effects of combining dynamic core stability exercises with cognitive training on dual-task conditions, marking a novel approach in chronic ankle instability rehabilitation.

Inclusion Criteria:

Inclusion criteria will be based on the standard criteria outlined by the International Ankle Consortium

1. History of chronic lateral ankle sprain and/or recurrent sprain and/or "feelings of instability or giving way" for 6 months or more before the study, with at least 2 episodes.
2. Patients are between 18 and 30 years old. 3- Body mass index less than 30

4. The patient has a history of at least one significant ankle sprain with associated inflammatory symptoms and at least one day of interrupted physical activity.

5. Patients who have unilateral chronic ankle instability. 6. Self-reported ankle instability should be confirmed using a validated ankle instability questionnaire (greater than 24).

Exclusion Criteria:

Those with a history of spine, pelvis, and lower extremity injury, fracture, or surgery 2- Those with low back pain that require medical or surgical intervention. 3- Having a history of an acute lower extremity injury or lower extremity surgery or fracture in the 3 months before the Study 4. Participation in formal ankle rehabilitation in the 3 months before the study.

5. Being diagnosed with neurologic dysfunction, such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, or head injury