Stroboscopic Versus Traditional Balance Training in Female Volleyball Players With Chronic Ankle Instability: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Abstract

Background Chronic ankle instability (CAI) causes recurrent sprains, reduced proprioception, and impaired postural control, negatively affecting volleyball performance. Stroboscopic glasses-based balance training can enhance sensorimotor control by manipulating visual input. Hypothesis Stroboscopic balance training would produce greater improvements in balance, proprioception, jump performance, and functional outcomes than traditional balance training in female volleyball players with CAI. Study design Randomized controlled trial. Level of evidence Level 2. Methods A total of 24 female volleyball players with CAI were assigned randomly to a stroboscopic (Group A, n = 10) or a traditional (Group B, n = 14) balance training group. Both performed supervised balance exercises twice weekly for 8 weeks; Group A used Senaptec stroboscopic glasses. Static balance (Performanz Balance System), dynamic balance (Y-balance test [YBT]), jump performance (vertical and single-leg hop), proprioception (joint position sense), and functionality (Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool [CAIT], Foot and Ankle Ability Measure-Sports Subscale [FAAM-S]) were assessed pre- and post-trainingResults:Group A improved in dynamic balance for posterolateral reach ( d = 0.67; P d = 0.51; P d = 0.86-1.20; P P > 0.05). Revealed no significant between-group differences in any YBT parameters. Static balance increased only in Group A ( d = 1.11; P d = 0.60; P r = 0.71-0.88; P d = 0.65; P d = 0.68-1.01; P d = 0.84; P d = 0.58; P r = 0.80-0.88; P Conclusion While both programs improved neuromuscular performance, stroboscopic balance training provided additional benefits in static balance and perceived ankle stability. Clinical relevance Incorporating stroboscopic visual perturbation into rehabilitation may optimize static balance and perceived ankle stability in female volleyball players with CAI.