Six Weeks of Strength and Proprioception Training Does Not Affect Muscle Fatigue and Static Balance in Functional Ankle Instability

Abstract

Context:The combined effects of strength and proprioception training, especially in individuals with ankle instability, have not been studied extensively.Objective:To examine the influence of 6 weeks of strength and proprioception training on measures of muscle fatigue and static balance in those with unilateral functional ankle instability (FAI).Design:Pretest–posttest, randomized groups.Setting:A climate-controlled sports-medicine research laboratory.Subjects:38 subjects with self-reported unilateral FAI.Measurements:Muscle fatigue was determined using the median power frequency (fmed) from an electromyographic signal, and static balance was assessed using center-of-pressure values obtained from a triaxial force plate.Results:There were no significant effects of the strength or proprioception training on our measures of muscle fatigue and static balance.Conclusions:Strength training, proprioception training, and the combination of the 2 failed to improve postural-stability characteristics in a group of subjects with FAI.