Whole-body vibration and stretching enhances dorsiflexion range of motion in individuals with chronic ankle instability

Abstract

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to determine if WBV performed concurrently with static stretching was more effective than static stretching alone to increase dorsiflexion ROM (DFROM) in individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI). DesignControlled laboratory study. ParticipantsThirty-nine participants with CAI (history of ankle sprain, a feeling of “giving way” during activity, and a qualifying Foot and Ankle Ability Measure Ankle score) were divided into 3 groups (normative (N), static stretch (SS), and static stretch with vibration (SV)). Participants stretched the triceps surae 4 days/wk for 3 wks. Vibration was imposed at 34 Hz and 1.8 mm. Main outcome measuresDFROM was assessed in a straight and bent-leg position. ResultsNo differences were detected at any time in the N or SS group, however SS did exhibit large effect sizes with 95% confidence intervals (CI) that did not cross zero from baseline to 3 weeks for both measures. The SV group demonstrated increased DFROM from baseline for both time points and a large effect size with 95% CI that did not cross zero from post tx-1 to post tx-2. ConclusionsStatic stretching with WBV increases DFROM in participants with CAI more effectively than static stretching alone.