The Comparison of the Effect of Eight Weeks of Theraband Exercises or Using Kinesiotape on Performance, Balance, and Range of Motion among the Athletes with Chronic Ankle Instability

Chronic ankle instability due to ankle sprain is a common injury among athletes. Theraband exercises and the use of external stabilization devices for nerve-muscle controlling in the injured ankle are among rehabilitation and prevention methods for ankle sprain. This study aimed to compare the effect of eight weeks of Theraband exercises or using kinesiotape on performance, balance, and range of motion among the athletes with chronic ankle instability.
In a clinical trial study, 30 athletes from the city of Kazeroun, Iran, who had ankle sprain at least twice during the last six month before the study were selected and randomly divided into two groups of Theraband and kinesiotape. The 8-week training program was performed 3 sessions a week. Performance measurement [Figure of 8 HopTest (FH)], balance [Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT)], and range of motion (goniometer) were evaluated. The data were analyzed using dependent and independent t statistical tests.
Findings: The kinesiotape group were better significantly in performance compared Theraband group (P = 0.001); Theraband group were better significantly in anterior (P = 0.001), right (P = 0.16), and left (P = 0.02) balance, as well as dorsiflexion (P = 0.001) and plantar flexion (P = 0.010) range of motion.
Theraband exercises and kinesiotape both significantly improved performance, balance, and range of motion among the athletes. Theraband exercises were more effective in balance and range of motion, and kinesiotape was more effective in athletic performance.