Effects of Neuromuscular Training With K-tape in Footballer With Ankle Sprain

This randomized controlled trial, conducted at the Pakistan Sports Board in Lahore from March to August 2023, investigates the impact of neuromuscular training with K-Tape on pain, range of motion, and balance in footballers with grade I and II ankle sprains. A total of 30 male participants aged 18-30, engaged in sports for at least one year with weekly training durations of 15-20 hours, are included in the study through a non-probability convenient sampling technique. The participants are divided into two groups: Group A (Control) receiving closed-chain exercises and Group B (Experimental) undergoing neuromuscular training with K-Tape. Data collection utilizes the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) for pain, the Star Excursion Balance Test for dynamic balance, Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM)-Sport Subscale, and a goniometer for range of motion. Participants undergo three sessions of treatment per week for four weeks. The collected data will be analyzed using SPSS version 25, aiming to provide insights into the efficacy of neuromuscular training with K-Tape as a rehabilitation strategy for ankle sprains in footballers.

Ankle sprains are prevalent injuries among footballers, often leading to pain, reduced range of motion, and compromised balance. While conventional closed-chain exercises are commonly employed in rehabilitation, this study addresses the potential benefits of neuromuscular training with K-Tape. The rationale lies in the understanding that precise interventions targeting neuromuscular control may offer additional therapeutic advantages. By exploring the effects of such an intervention, this research seeks to contribute insights into optimizing rehabilitation strategies for footballers recovering from ankle sprains, aiming to enhance both short-term recovery outcomes and long-term athletic performance.

This randomized controlled trial investigates the therapeutic efficacy of neuromuscular training with K-Tape in addressing pain, range of motion (ROM), and balance in footballers with grade I and II ankle sprains. Conducted at the Pakistan Sports Board in Lahore over a six-month period from March to August 2023, the study enrolled 30 male participants aged 18-30, actively engaged in sports for a minimum of one year, with weekly training durations ranging from 15 to 20 hours. Participants were divided into two groups: Group A (Control) received closed-chain exercises, while Group B (Experimental) underwent neuromuscular training with K-Tape.

Data collection utilized comprehensive tools, including the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) for pain assessment, the Star Excursion Balance Test for dynamic balance evaluation, the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM)-Sport Subscale to gauge functional abilities, and a goniometer for measuring range of motion. Both groups underwent three treatment sessions per week for four weeks. Group A adhered to conventional closed-chain exercises, while Group B received the experimental intervention of neuromuscular training with K-Tape.

The collected data will undergo rigorous analysis using SPSS version 25 to discern the comparative effectiveness of closed-chain exercises and neuromuscular training with K-Tape on the specified outcome measures. The study's findings are expected to provide valuable insights into potential rehabilitation strategies for footballers with ankle sprains, contributing to the advancement of sports medicine and guiding future interventions in optimizing the recovery process.

Eligibility Criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:

* Male
* Age:18-28 years
* Football Players (Playing since one year)
* Ankle Sprain Grade 1, 2
* (Squeeze Test and Talar Tilt Test) performed to diagnosis ankle sprain

Exclusion Criteria:

* Any Lower limb Musculoskeletal injury/Trauma
* Ankle or lower limb fracture (since last 6months)
* Any related systemic condition (diabetes)