Efficacy of Dual Task Training on Ankle Stability in Chronic Ankle Sprain

Background: Ankle sprain are among the common injuries in the physically active population. Majority of those who suffer ankle sprains have residual symptoms including pain, episodes of giving way, compromised proprioception and neuromuscular control, and re-injury leading to chronic ankle instability. Objective The objective of the present study was to find the effect of dual task training on ankle stability in chronic ankle sprain. Method A total of 42 participants with chronic ankle sprain were randomly allocated in 2 groups which contains 21 participants in each group. Group A received Dual Task Training with conventional treatment and Group B received Conventional Treatment only. Both group received treatment for 3 days a week for 4 weeks. All participants were assessed pre intervention (baseline) and post intervention (end of 4th week) for pain via NPRS, static balance via single leg stance test, dynamic balance via functional reach test, ankle muscle strength via Micro FET2 dynamometer, ROM assessed via goniometer, proprioception via degree of foot position sense. Result Statistical analysis showed significant improvement (P < 0.05) in Pain, Muscle strength and ROM within the groups as well as between the groups. With reference to static balance with one’s eyes open and eyes closed, dynamic balance and proprioception showed significant difference within Group A as well as between the groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion This study found that dual task training effectively improves pain, static balance, dynamic balance, muscle strength, ankle ROM and proprioception.