PURPOSE: This study examined the effect of vibration stimulation of a vibration foam roller on the change in the range of motion of the ankle joint and proprioception in patients with chronic ankle instability. An additional aim was to provide basic data for rehabilitation programs for chronic ankle instability patients.
METHODS: This study was a randomized crossover design of 22 patients with chronic ankle instability. All subjects were divided into a vibrating group, a non-vibrating group, and a control group. The vibration and non-vibration groups performed the interventions, but the control group did not. For the measurement, the range of motion and proprioception of the ankle joint was measured using an electronic protractor (Electrogoniometer, BPM Pathway, UK).
RESULTS: The vibration group showed significant differences in the dorsiflexion angle, dorsiflexion proprioception, and plantar flexion proprioception (p < .05). The non- vibration group showed significant differences in the dorsiflexion angle and dorsiflexion proprioceptive sensation (p < .05). The vibration group and the control group showed significant differences in dorsiflexion proprioception and plantar flexion proprioception (p < .05).
CONCLUSION: The range of motion and proprioception of the ankle joint were improved in the group that received vibration stimulation after the intervention than before the intervention. Future research will be needed on patients with various diseases.