The Immediate Effects of an Anterior-to-Posterior Talar Mobilization on Neural Excitability, Dorsiflexion Range of Motion, and Dynamic Balance in Patients With Chronic Ankle Instability

30 patients with chronic ankle instability were randomized to either a session of Maitland grade III mobilizations or to no intervention. Patients were assessed pre- and post-test for ankle range of motion in dorsiflexion, outcome on the Star Excursion Balance Test, spinal reflex excitability of the fibularis longus and soleus muscles, and corticospinal excitability of the fibularis longus and soleus muscles. Results demonstrated a significant group-by-time interaction in favour of the mobilization group for range of motion in dorsiflexion, though no significant group effects were observed for the Star Excursion Balance Test in the anterior, posteromedial, or posterolateral directions, spinal reflex excitability of the fibularis longus and soleus muscles, or corticospinal excitability of the fibularis longus and soleus muscles.