What Is the Role of Proximal Strength and Neuromuscular Training in Ankle Rehabilitation?

Deficits in range of motion (ROM), strength, neuromuscular (NM) control, and balance are typically present in patients with acute ankle sprains. Most of these disabilities persist in those with chronic ankle instability (CAI) as well. Therefore, traditional rehabilitation for ankle sprains and CAI consists of interventions to restore ROM, strength, and NM control at the ankle and to restore balance and functional movement performance. ¹ While these protocols are usually effective at treating impairments at the ankle and overcoming disability, the high rates of ankle sprain recurrence and development of CAI already discussed in the previous questions raise the need to critique the effectiveness of traditional ankle rehabilitation to address all impairments that may exist.