Investigation of the effect of chronic ankle instability on core stabilization, dynamic balance and agility among basketball players of a university

Abstract

BackgroundChronic ankle instability (CAI) is frequently seen in basketball, where ankle sprains are common due to repetitive movements such as jumping, landing, deceleration and acceleration. ObjectiveThis study investigated the effects of CAI on core stabilization, dynamic balance, and agility in university-level basketball players. Materials and methodsThe study included 22 basketball players with CAI (8F, 3M; 20.09 ± 1.04 years) and without CAI (8F, 3M; 21.27 ± 2.24 years), registered as team players in the Yeditepe University basketball teams. Participants divided into two groups: the chronic ankle instability group (CAIG) and the control group (CG). The participants' core stabilization was evaluated using the McGill Core Endurance Test, dynamic balance was evaluated with the Y Balance Test and the T Test was used to evaluate agility. ResultsAccording to the results of an independent t-test, significant differences were observed between groups including posteromedial (p = 0.03) and posterolateral (p = 0.03) reach distances, trunk flexion (p = 0.04) and trunk extension (p = 0.03) tests. According to the logistic regression analysis, Y Balance Test posteromedial and posterolateral reach distances, trunk flexion and trunk extension tests in the McGill Core Endurance Test were found to be statistically significant on the presence of CAI (p < 0.05). ConclusionIncluding core stabilization and dynamic balance exercises in the training program may be beneficial to improve core stabilization and dynamic balance parameters and prevention of CAI in university-level basketball players with CAI.