Conclusions The main findings from this systematic review were balance training provided the most consistent improvements in self-reported function for patients with CAI
Objective To identify which therapeutic intervention may be most effective for improving self-reported function in patients with chronic ankle instability ( CAI ) .
Plantar Cutaneous Sensitivity With and Without Cognitive Loading in People With Chronic Ankle Instability, Copers, and Uninjured Controls.
STUDY DESIGN Controlled laboratory study . BACKGROUND Deficits in light touch have recently been identified on the plantar surface of the foot in those with chronic ankle instability ( CAI ) but not in uninjured controls . It is unknown whether copers display similar deficits . Similarly , cognitive loading has been shown to impact postural control in different population s , but it is unclear how it may impact sensory perception . OBJECTIVES To evaluate the difference in cutaneous sensation thresholds at rest and under cognitive loading , using Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments ( SWMs ) , among uninjured controls , copers , and those with CAI . METHODS A total of 45 participants ( mean ± SD age , 20.2 ± 2.8 years ; height , 167.6 ± 9.9 cm ; mass , 66.3 ± 14.7 kg ) were recruited and categorized to a  CAI , coper , or control group  , based on Ankle Instability Instrument scores . Participants were assessed with SWMs for cutaneous thresholds using a 4 - 2 - 1 stepping algorithm at the head of the first metatarsal , base of the fifth metatarsal , calcaneus , and sinus tarsi . Each participant was then retested while generating r and om digits to the beat of a metronome in order to simulate cognitive loading . RESULTS Participants with CAI displayed significantly higher SWM thresholds at the head of the first metatarsal , base of the fifth metatarsal , and sinus tarsi than those of the control participants , and significantly higher thresholds at the base of the fifth metatarsal and calcaneus than those of copers ( all , P<.05 ) . Copers showed higher thresholds than those of controls at the sinus tarsi only ( P<.05 ) . A main effect of cognitive loading was identified at all 4 sites ( P<.05 ) . CONCLUSION People with CAI have deficits in plantar sensation relative to controls and copers . Cognitive loading increases plantar cutaneous sensation thresholds irrespective of CAI status
Conclusions The main findings from this systematic review were balance training provided the most consistent improvements in self-reported function for patients with CAI
Objective To identify which therapeutic intervention may be most effective for improving self-reported function in patients with chronic ankle instability ( CAI ) .