Correlation between functional impairment and quantitative MRI assessment of ankle cartilage in chronic ankle instability.

Motivation: This research is motivated by the need to clarify the unclear relationship between functional impairments and cartilage degeneration in chronic ankle instability (CAI), as previous studies have examined these factors separately. Goal(s): This study compares CAI patients and controls to target interventions enhancing joint health and preventing cartilage degeneration. Approach: This case-control study assessed CAI using Y-Balance Test, CoP analysis, MRI T2 mapping, and CAIT questionnaire for balance and instability. Results: Higher T2 values in CAI indicate degeneration, correlating with poor CAIT scores, reduced YBT distances, and increased CoP excursions. Impact: This study links CAI to functional impairments and cartilage degeneration, aiding targeted interventions to reduce long-term joint damage.