Effects of Dual-Task-Based Balance Exercise on Enhancing Single-Limb Static and Dynamic Balance Performance in Children with a Previous Ankle Sprain History

This study aimed to estimate the extent to which dual-task-based balance exercise vs. single-task-based balance exercise (I) vs. no training (C) affects single-limb static and dynamic balance performance (O) in children with a history of ankle sprain (P). This study aimed to assess the impact of dual-task-based balance exercises on enhancing single-limb static and dynamic balance performance in children with a previous ankle sprain history. In this quasi-experimental study, 66 male children (mean age = 9.34 ± 0.88 years) with a history of ankle sprains were recruited from sports clubs and assigned to one of three groups: (1) balance training with a dual task (22 participants; 12 sessions); (2) balance training with a single task (22 participants; 12 sessions); or (3) a control group (no training; 22 participants). Static balance (Stork test) and dynamic balance (Y balance test) were assessed before and after the intervention. Results indicated that static balance in male children during dual-task training outperformed single-task training and the control group (p < .05). Single-task training also surpassed the control group (p < .05). In dynamic balance, both dual-task and single-task balance training groups performed better than the control group (p < .05), with no significant difference between the two training methods (p > .05). These findings suggest that balance exercises, particularly those incorporating cognitive dual tasks, can enhance the balance performance of male children with a previous ankle sprain history. Coaches and physiotherapists working with such male children are encouraged to incorporate the dual-task model into their training regimens.