Riassunto dello studio

Fifty-one elite adolescent male soccer players with functional ankle instability (FAI) were randomized into strength training (n=17), balance training (n=17), or control (n=17) groups. The primary outcomes were kinesiophobia (measured by the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia, TSK) and ankle instability (measured by the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool, CAIT). Secondary outcomes included ankle strength (in four directions), dynamic balance, static balance, and performance (figure-8 and side-hop tests). Outcomes were assessed pre- and post-intervention over six weeks. Overall, balance training demonstrated superior improvements in reducing kinesiophobia and improving static balance, while both strength and balance training enhanced ankle strength, dynamic balance, and performance compared to the control group. The study concludes that balance training is crucial for addressing both psychological and physical aspects of FAI.