Risk factors for ankle sprain in volleyball players: A preliminary analysis

Abstract

Injuries in volleyball are sport specific and occur around the net during spiking and blocking. The most common acute injury in volleyball is ankle sprain. There are limited data about the intrinsic risk factors for the ankle sprains in volleyball players. We investigated the influence of muscle strength, postural balance and active range of motion on the ankle sprain occurrence in volleyball players. In 38 professional volleyball players we have tested the strength of plantar and dorsal flexors using isokinetic dynamometer. Dynamic postural balance was measured using Biodex Balance System and active range of motion was tested by the means of universal goniometry. Following the testing players were prospectively followed up over a season, with injuries and exposure rates registered by the team coaches. Binary logistic regression was used to evaluate the role of individual risk factors. The main findings of our study indicate that higher strength of plantar flexors (odds ratio 1.22, 95% C.I. 1.04-1.43, p< 0.05) and decreasing range of motion in dorsiflexion (odds ratio 0.63, 95% C.I. 0.41-0.97) are significant risk factors for the ankle sprain. The results are suggesting that both risk factors are limiting the ability to land safely from a jump, and that plyometric exercises, proper landing technique and gastrocnemius stretching should be emphasized in the preventive training programs in volleyball players.