Influence Of Ankle Flexibility On The Single Leg Balance Test Using A Dynamic Balance System

Abstract

Ankle range of motion (ROM) is believed to be one of the contributing factors in balance deficits. Multiple studies have investigated balance in reference to vision, strength, vestibular function, proprioception, and sensation. However, most of these studies have utilized geriatric, athletic, or injured populations focusing on static balance measures. PURPOSE: Although there are multiple factors that play a role in balance, the purpose of this study was to assess the influence of ankle flexibility on dynamic single leg balance in fit and unfit males. METHODS: Twenty-five male subjects (age = 22 + 2 years; ht. = 179 + 7 cm; wt. = 85.6 + 15 kg) were recruited for this study. Ankle flexibility (which includes dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, eversion, and inversion) was measured in degrees for both legs with a goniometer. Subjects then completed four trials, of which the first two trials were familiarization, of the single leg balance test for each leg on a dynamic balance system. Mean stability index (SI) was calculated for the last two trials and both a Pearson Correlation and Independent T-test were utilized. RESULTS: No significant correlations between overall stability and dorsiflexion (p = 0.899), plantarflexion (p = 0.790), eversion (p =.704), and inversion (p =.550) on the left and right ankle were present (p < 0.05). However, there was a significant correlation between inversion of the left ankle and medial/lateral SI (p = 0.022); and between dorsiflexion of the left ankle and anterior/posterior SI (p = 0.049). No significant differences for ankle flexibility or SI occurred between unfit and fit individuals (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Results suggest ankle ROM may be a contributing factor in dynamic balance on the non-dominant leg.