A comparison of two Thera-Band training rehabilitation protocols on postural control.

CONTEXT: Thera-Band (TB) exercises are commonly utilized in ankle rehabilitation, but previous studies have shown inconsistent results.

OBJECTIVE

To compare two TB protocols among healthy subjects in improving postural control.

DESIGN

Mixed model design.

SETTING

Research laboratory.

PARTICIPANTS

Thirty healthy subjects divided into a control (CON), three times/week (TB3) or five times/week (TB5) group.

INTERVENTION: Training groups completed TB quick-kick protocols for six weeks either three (TB3) or five times (TB5) per week.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Center of pressure velocity in the anterior/posterior (COPVX) and medial/lateral (COPVY) directions.

RESULTS

There were no differences related to Group or Side. COPVX in the eyes open (EO) condition increased pre-post. COPVY decreased pre-post.

CONCLUSION

The lack of differences between Groups and Side indicates these specific TB training protocols did not impact static postural control differently among healthy subjects.