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

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.

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 < 0.05) and composite score (d = 0.51; P < 0.05). Group B improved in anterior, posterolateral, and composite scores (d = 0.86-1.20; P < 0.05), with no between-group differences (P > 0.05). Revealed no significant between-group differences in any YBT parameters. Static balance increased only in Group A (d = 1.11; P < 0.05), with greater gains than Group B (d = 0.60; P < 0.05). Vertical jump improved in both groups (r = 0.71-0.88; P < 0.05), while single-leg hop increased only in Group A (d = 0.65; P < 0.05). Proprioception improved in both groups (d = 0.68-1.01; P < 0.05). CAIT rose only in Group A (d = 0.84; P < 0.05), showing greater gains than Group B (d = 0.58; P < 0.05). FAAM-S improved in both (r = 0.80-0.88; P < 0.05).

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.

STUDY DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 2.