Efficacy of a Structured Training Program on Ankle ROM, Pain, and Balance in Obese Individuals having Chronic Ankle Instability (CAI)

Background: Obesity has become a global epidemic and a major life-threatening issue that cannot be ignored. Overweight and obese individuals are at higher risk for lateral ankle sprains and instabilities. Objective: To determine the efficacy of a structured training program on ankle ROM, pain, and balance in obese individuals having chronic ankle instability (CAI). Study design: Experimental study, simple random sampling. Participants: 60 participants (41 females, 19 males, age=21.5±2.3 years, BMI=32.36±2 kg/m2) were included in the study. The participants were selected according to an inclusion and exclusion criteria. Cumberland ankle instability tool (CAIT) and a questionnaire was used to assess the severity of chronic ankle instability. Procedure: The pre-test scores of visual analogue scale (VAS), star excursion balance test (SEBT), and ankle dorsiflexion range of motion were taken. The training program was given 3 times per week for 6 weeks, per session 40- 60 minutes and then the post-test assessment was taken. Analysis: Data was calculated as mean, standard deviation, range for quantitative variables and frequency, and percentage for qualitative variables by using the software Instat. All variables were compared using the chi-square test. Results: The pre-test VAS scores at rest and on activity were 3.43±1.5 and 5.5±1.4 respectively and the post-test scores at rest and on activity were 1.1±0.8 and 1.5±0.8 respectively. The pre-test ROM score was 31.37±2.9 whereas the post-test score was 33.12±2.9. A significant difference was found in VAS scores and ROM scores with a P value <0.0001 for each. Significant differences were found between the pre-test and post-test SEBT scores in an involved limb of subjects with CAI (p value <0.0001). Conclusion: This study has shown that there was a significant improvement in ROM, pain and SEBT scores of obese individuals having chronic ankle instability when the subjects underwent a structured training program.