Effect of aquatic versus conventional physical therapy program on ankle sprain grade III in elite athletes: randomized controlled trial.

研究概要

Thirty elite athletes with acute grade III ankle sprains (18–30 years old) were randomized to receive either aquatic therapy (n=15) or conventional land-based therapy (n=15). The primary outcome was recovery time for return to sport. Secondary outcomes included dynamic balance, pain levels, athletic performance (measured by HOP and agility tests), and muscle power. Outcomes were assessed pre-intervention, at 4 weeks, and 6 weeks post-intervention. The aquatic therapy group showed significantly faster recovery and superior outcomes in dynamic balance, pain reduction, and athletic performance. This study suggests aquatic therapy as a more effective rehabilitation approach for this population.