Two-Week Joint Mobilization Intervention Improves Self-Reported Function, Range of Motion, and Dynamic Balance in Those with Chronic Ankle Instability

SLR - July 2013 - Jackie Pyle

Reference: Hoch C., et al. Two-Week Joint Mobilization Intervention Improves Self-Reported Function, Range of Motion, and Dynamic Balance in Those with Chronic Ankle Instability. J Orthopaedic Research. 2012; 30:1798-1804.

Scientific Literature Review

Reviewed by: Jackie Pyle, DPM
Program: Southern Arizona VA Health Care System

Podiatric Relevance:  Acute lateral ankle pathology is one of the most common injuries sustained in active individuals. Many patients with these injuries can have residual symptoms leading to chronic ankle instability (CAI).
 

Methods:  Twelve patients (six males and six females) with CAI were evaluated based on weight-bearing dorsiflexion ROM, dynamic balance and self-reported function following a two-week regimen of anterior-to-posterior ankle joint mobilization. Each patient received six mobilization sessions. Weight-bearing dorsiflexion ROM, anterior-, posteromedial,- and posterolateral-reach directions, and self-reported function on the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure were assessed at one week before the intervention (baseline), just prior to first treatment (pre-intervention), 24-48 hours after final treatment (post-intervention) and one week after final treatment (follow-up).

Results:  All parameters assessed improved from baseline measurements to post-intervention and one week follow-up. No improvements were made between the baseline and pre-intervention measurements or between the post-intervention and one week follow-up measurements.
 

Conclusions:  This study suggests a two week joint mobilization intervention targeting the posterior ankle structures can lead to improvement in dorsiflexion ROM, increased reach distances and self-reported function in patients with chronic ankle insufficiency for at least up to one week.