Approach to chronic ankle instability rehabilitation: does mobilization have a role ?

Joint mobilization shows some immediate benefits for chronic ankle instability, particularly in dynamic postural control, where posteromedial and posterolateral reach improve right after treatment. A small, near-significant gain in dorsiflexion may also occur, but clinical scores and static balance measures remain unchanged. Evidence is limited by small samples, varied mobilization protocols, and mostly short-term follow-ups, leaving uncertainty about longer-term effects such as recurrent instability or future sprains. Continued research with better blinding, larger cohorts, and extended follow-up is needed to clarify its role in rehabilitation.