Purpose; Through experimental observation of exercise intervention (blood flow restriction training combined with low load ankle muscle strength training and balance training) combined with instrument tool therapy (Instrument Soft Tissue Release Technique, IASTM), the intervention effect on ankle function, strength, and joint range of motion of sports dance athletes with ankle instability was observed. Method; 45 subjects with unstable, restricted or uncomfortable ankle joints were selected as observation subjects and randomly divided into ankle blood flow restriction training combined with IASTM group (n=15), ankle blood flow restriction training alone (n=15), and traditional ankle strength training (n=15). The intervention lasted for 6 weeks, once a week. Cumberland ankle instability assessment, FAAM ankle function assessment score, and ankle range of motion measurement were performed at three time points before intervention, after the first intervention, and after 6 weeks of intervention for three groups. The ankle strength test was only compared and analyzed at two time points before and after intervention.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
45
Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training, also known as occlusion training or restricted blood flow training, involves applying external pressure to a limb using inflatable cuffs or elastic bands. This pressure partially restricts arterial blood flow while occluding venous blood flow in the pressured limb. The goal is to increase muscle strength and size by creating metabolic stress and promoting physiological adaptations, such as muscle hypertrophy, with lighter loads than traditional resistance training.
Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) is a therapeutic technique that involves the use of specially designed tools or instruments to apply controlled mechanical pressure to soft tissues in the body. These tools are typically made of stainless steel or other materials and have various shapes and edges. The primary aim of IASTM is to address musculoskeletal conditions by breaking down scar tissue, fascial restrictions, and adhesions in the soft tissues. Practitioners use the instruments to detect and treat areas of tissue dysfunction, promoting improved range of motion, reduced pain, and enhanced functional mobility.
Tuinal, also known as Tui Na or Chinese therapeutic massage, is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) healing technique that involves manual manipulation of the body's soft tissues, including muscles and tendons. It is a form of bodywork that aims to balance the flow of vital energy (Qi) within the body and promote overall well-being. Tuina techniques may include kneading, rolling, pressing, and brushing, and they are applied to specific acupressure points or along the body's meridians. Tuina is used to address various health concerns, alleviate pain, improve circulation, and enhance the body's natural healing processes, making it an integral part of traditional Chinese medicine.
YangLiu
Wuhan, Hubei, China
Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool，CAIT
Evaluated the patient's perception of ankle instability, including the frequency, CAIT typically includes a specific range of questions, each of which may have different scores. The total score is usually between 0 and 30 points, with higher scores indicating higher stability intensity, and impact of symptoms
Time frame: 4-6week
Foot and Ankle Ability Measure（FAAM）
Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) is a scale used to evaluate ankle joint function, which includes questions about pain, function, and quality of life, and can be used to assess the overall condition of patients with ankle instability. The functional score includes two types of assessments: the functional level of daily life (FAAM-ADL) and the functional level of physical activity (FAAM-SPORT). The score range is usually from 0 to 100, where 100 represents completely normal ankle joint function, and 0 represents extreme restriction or complete inability to use the ankle joint.
Time frame: 4-6week
Ankle joint range of motion
This study used a high-precision joint motion angle measuring ruler to measure the range of motion of different ankle functions in both sitting and supine positions, including measurements of dorsiflexion and plantar flexion of the ankle, as well as measurements of varus and eversion of the foot. The larger the angle, the better the improvement in joint motion.
Time frame: 4-6week
Ankle joint strength test
The experimental strength data was tested using a handheld digital muscle strength tester (model: FM-204M series muscle strength tester). The measurement unit of this muscle strength tester is N, with a measurement unit range of ± 50kgf and a measurement accuracy of ± 0.5% FS (range) ± 1 digital peak. The measured data includes both peak strength and instantaneous strength values. Therefore, this study used a handheld digital muscle strength tester, where participants sat in a suitable position, fixed the bottom of the instrument on the ground, and then applied force in different directions through their ankles. Measure the maximum force in the direction of dorsiflexion and plantarflexion of the ankle joint, abduction and eversion of the foot, and adduction and eversion. The strength test for each different exercise segment needs to be completed three times, and the average of the maximum strength values from the three tests is taken.
Time frame: 4-6week
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