Effects of Proprioceptive Training and Self-Myofascial Release on Balance and Ankle Joint Range of Motion in Adults with Chronic Ankle Instability: A Pilot Study

Purpose: This study aimed to compare and analyze the effects of proprioceptive training and self-myofascial release on gait, balance, and ankle range of motion (ROM) in adults with chronic ankle instability (CAI).Methods: Adults with CAI were identified using the Chronic Ankle Instability Questionnaire and the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool.Ten participants were randomly assigned to either a proprioceptive training group or a self-myofascial release group.Both interventions were conducted twice a week for four weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30 minutes.Gait and balance abilities were assessed using the Y-Balance Test (anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral directions), the Figure-of-8 Walk Test (F8WT), and the Functional Reach Test (FRT).Ankle ROM was evaluated in dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, inversion, and eversion.Results: The proprioceptive training group demonstrated significant improvements in all directions of the Y-Balance Test.The self-myofascial release group showed significant improvements in F8WT and FRT.Both groups exhibited increased ankle ROM in certain movements.These findings suggest that proprioceptive training contributes to improvements in balance and postural †Corresponding