Can fibular reposition taping improve balance performance in individuals with chronic ankle instability? A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

BackgroundLateral ankle sprain results in positional faults in the fibula which are thought to limit accessory motion in the ankle, leading to hypomobility and negatively influencing sensorimotor function and postural control. Although it has been shown that fibular reposition taping (FRT) is effective in the prevention of recurrent lateral ankle sprain, its ability to produce significant changes in balance measures in patients with chronic ankle instability is inconclusive. ObjectiveThis study aimed to determine whether a FRT intervention affects balance performance in patients with chronic ankle instability. DesignRandomized controlled trial. MethodsSixty individuals with chronic ankle instability were randomly allocated to three groups: FRT, sham taping, or no intervention (control group). Kinesiotape was applied and then re-applied on 3 occasions per week for 2 weeks. Static and dynamic balance were measured with three functional tests before and 1 day after the last session of intervention with the tape removed: single-leg stance test, single-leg hop test for distance, and modified Star Excursion Balance Test (mSEBT). ResultsThe results of ANCOVA showed that there were no significant differences between the three groups except for mSEBT reach distance in the posterolateral direction, which was significantly greater in the FRT group than the control group (p = 0.03). ConclusionApplying FRT for 2 weeks did not significantly affect static or dynamic balance measures in individuals with chronic ankle instability, hence its clinical efficacy to influence balance remains uncertain in this population. Clinical trial registration numberIRCT20171122037576N2