Effect of Chronic Ankle Sprain on Pain, Range of Motion, Proprioception, and Balance among Athletes

Background : Ankle sprains are common among physically active individuals, especially among athletes. Majority of those who suffer ankle sprains have residual symptoms including pain, episodes of giving way, compromised proprioception and neuromuscular control, and re-injury leading to chronic ankle instability. The aim of this study was to see the effect of chronic ankle sprain on pain, range of motion, proprioception, and, static and dynamic balance among athletes. Methods : A total of 80 athletes, aged 18 to 25 years, involved in track-and-field sports were invited to participate in this study. They were divided in two groups. Athletes with history of grade 1 or 2 ankle sprain on either side requiring medical care who reported at least three episodes of ankle giving way in past 12 months were included in group A. An equal number of healthy athletes without any history of ankle sprain or injury in the lower limbs in the past one year matched by sex, age, height, weight, and limb dominance, were included in group B (control). Outcome measures : Participant’s pain, range of motion, proprioception and balance (static and dynamic) was measured using visual analog scale, half circle goniometer, degree of foot position sense, single leg stance time and Y-balance test respectively. Results : Although there were no differences in the active ankle joint range of motion ( p > 0.05) in comparison to the control group, athletes with chronic ankle sprain reported mild pain and statistically significant ( p < 0.05) deficits in foot proprioception, static and dynamic balance. Conclusions : Deficits in foot proprioception, static and dynamic balance even one year after the ankle sprain could be the reason for limitations in the dynamic defense system of the joint that predisposes to recurrent injury and instability. It is essential to understand the normal clinical course and risk factors for athletes who sustain sprain before devising a long term comprehensive rehabilitation program that focuses on mechanical and functional insufficiencies in order to improve their functional performance and prevent the risk of recurrent sprain.