Comparing the Effect of Functional, Extra-Functional and Combined Exercises on Dynamic Balance in Athletes with Functional Ankle Instability

The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of six weeks of functional (hopping), extra-functional (core stability), and the combined (hopping and core stability) training on dynamic balance in athletes with Functional Ankle Instability. participants were selected purposefully Using Identification of functional ankle instability questionnaire, then randomly assigned into functional, extra-functional, combined and control groups. Y balance test was performed before and after interventions.. Differences were observed. Multiple comparisons revealed that functional and combined groups performed significantly better than extra-functional and control groups for the balance test. No significant difference was observed between functional and combined Group to show any predominance to improve balance. According to the result, the efficiency of functional and not extra-functional training on dynamic balance in athletes with functional ankle instability was approved. Therefore it is recommended not to emphasize particularly on core stability until being proved by further studies.