Comparative Effect of Combined Strength, Core and Balance Training on Kinesiophobia, Ankle Instability, Functional Outcomes, and Performance in Table Tennis Players With Functional Ankle Instability

N/ANot Yet RecruitingNCT07671170

Ibadat International University, Islamabad51 enrolled

Overview

This randomized controlled trial investigates the comparative effect of combined strength and balance training versus balance and core training on kinesiophobia (fear of movement), ankle instability, functional outcomes, and athletic performance in adolescent table tennis players with functional ankle instability (FAI). Participants will be randomly allocated into two groups over a 6-week intervention (3 sessions/week). The Experimental Group will receive combined strength and balance training, while the Control Group will receive balance and core training. Outcomes will be measured using validated tools: TSK-17, CAIT, FAAM, Y-Balance Test, Single-Leg Hop Test, T-Test, and Illinois Agility Test.

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

SINGLE

Enrollment

Conditions

Functional Ankle Instability Kinesiophobia Sports Rehabilitation Neuromuscular Control

Interventions

Experimental : Combined Strength and Balance TrainingOTHER

A structured 6-week exercise program combining ankle strengthening exercises (Theraband resistance training, heel raises, lunges) with dynamic balance training (single-leg stance, wobble board, Y-balance drills). Sessions last 40-45 minutes and are conducted 3 times per week. Warm-up: 5-7 min light jogging/dynamic mobility. Main Training: 30 min combined strength and balance work. Cool-down: 5 min static stretching.

Control : Balance and Core TrainingOTHER

A structured 6-week program combining balance training (single-leg stance on firm and foam surfaces, tandem walking, Y-balance drills) with core stabilization exercises (plank, side plank, dead bug). Sessions last 40-45 minutes, 3 times per week with the same warm-up and cool-down structure as the experimental group

Eligibility

Sex: ALLMin age: 15 YearsMax age: 30 YearsHealthy volunteers:

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria: 1. Male/female table tennis players aged 15-30 years 2. Experienced at least one ankle sprain with swelling/pain that interrupted training for \>1 day within the last 6 months 3. Reported sensation of instability of the ankle 4. Scored ≤25 points on the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT), indicating functional ankle instability Exclusion Criteria: 1. History of ankle fracture or surgery 2. Any fracture of lower limb history 3. Any neurological or vestibular disorders 4. Other injuries of lower limb affecting performance

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

Kinesiophobia - Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK-17)

17-item self-report questionnaire measuring fear of movement and re-injury. Good internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.70-0.86) and test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.72-0.90). Reduced scores indicate decreased kinesiophobia.