Stroboscopic Versus Traditional Balance Training in Female Volleyball Players With Chronic Ankle Instability: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND

Chronic ankle instability (CAI) causes recurrent sprains, reduced proprioception, and impaired postural control, negatively affecting volleyball performance. Stroboscopic glasses-based balance training can enhance sensorimotor control by manipulating visual input.

HYPOTHESIS: Stroboscopic balance training would produce greater improvements in balance, proprioception, jump performance, and functional outcomes than traditional balance training in female volleyball players with CAI.

STUDY

DESIGN

Randomized controlled trial.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 2.

METHODS

A total of 24 female volleyball players with CAI were assigned randomly to a stroboscopic (Group A, n = 10) or a traditional (Group B, n = 14) balance training group. Both performed supervised balance exercises twice weekly for 8 weeks; Group A used Senaptec stroboscopic glasses. Static balance (Performanz Balance System), dynamic balance (Y-balance test [YBT]), jump performance (vertical and single-leg hop), proprioception (joint position sense), and functionality (Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool [CAIT], Foot and Ankle Ability Measure-Sports Subscale [FAAM-S]) were assessed pre- and post-trainingResults:Group A improved in dynamic balance for posterolateral reach (d = 0.67; P < 0.05) and composite score (d = 0.51; P < 0.05). Group B improved in anterior, posterolateral, and composite scores (d = 0.86-1.20; P < 0.05), with no between-group differences (P > 0.05). Revealed no significant between-group differences in any YBT parameters. Static balance increased only in Group A (d = 1.11; P < 0.05), with greater gains than Group B (d = 0.60; P < 0.05). Vertical jump improved in both groups (r = 0.71-0.88; P < 0.05), while single-leg hop increased only in Group A (d = 0.65; P < 0.05). Proprioception improved in both groups (d = 0.68-1.01; P < 0.05). CAIT rose only in Group A (d = 0.84; P < 0.05), showing greater gains than Group B (d = 0.58; P < 0.05). FAAM-S improved in both (r = 0.80-0.88; P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

While both programs improved neuromuscular performance, stroboscopic balance training provided additional benefits in static balance and perceived ankle stability.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Incorporating stroboscopic visual perturbation into rehabilitation may optimize static balance and perceived ankle stability in female volleyball players with CAI.