The effect of plyometrics and ankle stability exercise program in gymnasts with functional ankle instability

Abstract

Background: Ankle instability (AI) is a common condition among young female gymnasts due to the sport's high demands on balance, strength, and proprioception. This study aimed to explore how a targeted 6-week training program impacts dynamic balance, strength, postural control, and shock absorption in gymnasts with AI. Given the prevalence of AI-related injuries in gymnasts, the research sought to determine the most effective interventions to manage and prevent this condition. Aims: The primary objective was to assess whether a combination of plyometric, balance, and strength training over six weeks could significantly improve performance metrics in young gymnasts experiencing AI. Specifically, the study aimed to answer whether such interventions could enhance dynamic balance, mitigate muscle imbalances, improve postural control, and improve shock absorption during landing. Research Question: Does a 6-week training program incorporating plyometrics, strength, and balance exercises effectively reduce the symptoms of AI in young female gymnasts? Methods: A total of five teenage female gymnasts with a history of recurrent ankle sprains were recruited, and the study followed a set of inclusion criteria, such as age between 8-21, English-speaking participants, and a history of significant ankle sprains. Exclusion criteria involved prior orthopaedic surgery within six months, congenital deformities, and vestibular disorders. Outcome measures included the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) for dynamic balance, dynamometry for muscle strength assessment, centre of pressure (COP) analysis for postural control, and vertical peak ground reaction force (VPGRF) to evaluate shock absorption. Results: Post-intervention analysis revealed significant improvements in dynamic balance, particularly in the antero-medial, medial, and postero-medial directions of the SEBT. Strength gains were substantial in plantar flexion and internal rotation, with increases of 66% and 45%, respectively. COP analysis indicated enhanced postural control, particularly in medio-lateral sway, while VPGRF results suggested improved shock absorption, though variability in participant response was noted. Some participants did not exhibit uniform improvements in postural control or shock absorption. Conclusion: The 6-week training program demonstrated efficacy in improving key physical metrics related to AI in gymnasts, though individual variability in response was observed. These results support the potential of targeted interventions in managing AI, however, the small sample size limits generalizability. Future research should include larger sample sizes and longer intervention periods. The study underscores the importance of personalized interventions to effectively address AI in gymnasts.