| Summary: | [Purpose] This study aimed to investigate the effect of ankle proprioceptive training on
static body balance. [Subjects and Methods] In this randomized-controlled, single-blind
study, 59 university students (35 females, 24 males) were randomized into study (n=29) and
control (n=30) groups. The study group received a foot and ankle proprioceptive exercise
program including stretching, strengthening (plantar and dorsi-flexors, invertor and
evertor muscles), and balance board exercises, each with 10 repetitions per session, 5
days a week, for a total of 10 sessions. The control group did not receive any
intervention. Static body balance was evaluated by a kinesthetic ability trainer, which
showed the balance index scores under both single foot and both feet conditions. This
evaluation was repeated at the end of two weeks for both groups. [Results] Outcome
measures of the groups were similar at the baseline. Balance index scores of both groups
improved at the end of two weeks, and the study group had significantly lower index scores
than those of the control group, indicating better balance. [Conclusion] Ankle
proprioceptive training had positive effects on static body balance parameters in healthy
individuals, and it is worth investigating the effects of this type of training in
patients with balance disorders.
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