Effects of Tai Chi Chuan on Postural Stability and Lower-Limb Biomechanical Characteristics in Patients With Functional Ankle Instability: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Study Summary

50 patients with functional ankle instability (FAI) were randomized to receive a supervised 12-week simplified 24-form Tai Chi Chuan (TCC) program or structured health education. The primary outcome of interest was the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT). Secondary outcomes included American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot Score (AOFAS-AHS), visual analogue scale (VAS) pain, 3D gait parameters and lower-limb kinematics, and static and dynamic postural control. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and 12 weeks, with 46 patients completing follow-up. Overall, the results revealed that TCC produced greater improvements in CAIT, AOFAS-AHS, pain, dynamic balance, step width, and selected hip and ankle kinematics compared with health education. These findings suggest that TCC may be an effective low-impact rehabilitation option for improving ankle function, pain, and functional stability in patients with FAI.