• Turhan B
• Öztürk Ö

• Ankle Injuries
• Exercise Therapy / instrumentation
• Exercise Therapy / methods
• Kinesiophobia
• Postural Balance / physiopathology

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of wobble board-based exergame training on static and dynamic balance ability, functionality, and fear of movement in individuals with functional ankle instability (FAI).

Methods: Forty individuals with FAI were randomized into 2 groups. The exercise group (EG) (n = 20) received wobble board-based exergame training 3 times a week for 4 weeks, while control group (CG) (n = 20) had no intervention but continued their usual activities. Measurements included Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT), Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), Fear Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire, Short Form-12, perceived treatment effect, time-in-balance, and foot lift test.

Results: Significant group-by-time interactions were detected for time-in-balance (P < .031), foot lift (P = .046), and fear of movement (P = .035) in favor of the EG. Both groups displayed improvements in FAAM scores without a significant difference between the groups (P > .05). The EG did not display superior results in SEBT despite significant within-group improvements after 4-week intervention (P > .05).

Conclusions: This study found that wobble board-based exergame training improved static balance and reduced fear of movement in individuals with FAI in the short term.

Author keywords: Ankle injuries; Fear of movement; Postural balance. 

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