The effects of neuro-vestibular-ocular exercises and myofascial release on proprioception and performance in football players with chronic ankle instability

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Football players often use quick change of direction, sudden acceleration and explosive movements. This is why chronic ankle instability is one of the most common conditions affecting this athlete population. This study investigates the effects of neuro-vestibular-ocular exercises and myofascial release on proprioception and performance in football players with chronic ankle instability. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This randomized controlled clinical trial included 60 football players aged 18–30. The players were randomly divided into two groups. The first group (NVOEG, n=30) was included in the Neuro-Vestibular-ocular exercise training program, while the myofascial release was applied to the second group (MRHOG, n=30). Both protocols were applied for eight weeks. The participants’ Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) scores were assessed before and after the intervention. Proprioception was evaluated by using the joint position sense test. Additionally, kick speed (KS), 30-m sprint, zig-zag agility test (ZAT) and Landing error score system (LESS) tests were applied to evaluate their performance. RESULTS: Post-rehabilitation scores showed significant differences in proprioception and performance parameters compared to pre-scores in both groups. (p<0.05). Significant differences were observed between the NVOEG and MRHOG in the post-test scores, including CAIT for unstable and stable ankle, proprioception for unstable ankle, LESS, ZAT with ball performance, and 30-meter sprint test. CONCLUSIONS: The neuro-vulvular-ocular exercise training protocol had superior results in terms of proprioception and performance parameters in chronic ankle instability management for football players.