The Effectiveness of the Ankle Balance Taping Technique Compared to Sham Accompanied with Strengthening Leg Muscles Against Static and Dynamic Balance: A Single Blind, Randomized Control Trial

Abstract

Introduction: Recurrent lateral ankle ligament injuries in runners may lead to chronic ankle instability and balance impairment. Ankle Balance Taping (ABT) is a potential adjunctive intervention to improve balance function. Aim: This study aims to compare the effects of kinesio taping with Ankle Balance Taping (ABT) and Sham techniques accompanied by strengthening exercise on dynamic and static balance in runners with chronic ankle instability.
Methods: This single-blind randomized controlled trial included 36 male runners allocated by block randomization to the ABT group (n=19) or sham group (n=17). The intervention was given for 3 weeks. Dynamic balance was measured using the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT), while static balance was measured using the Stork Test. Data were analyzed using parametric or nonparametric tests according to data distribution, and effect size was calculated using Cohen’s d.
Results: At week 3, the ABT group showed greater SEBT improvement than the sham group in the anterior (13.58±9.16 vs 1.24±1.11 cm; p less than 0.001; d=1.84), posteromedial (7.03±3.21 vs 4.42±4.07 cm; p=0.028; d=0.72), and posterolateral directions (10.73±7.46 vs 1.49±1.18 cm; p less than 0.001; d=1.68). No differences were found in the other five directions. Static balance improved in both groups without a significant between-group difference.
Conclusion: ABT as an adjunct to strengthening exercise provides short-term benefits mainly for dynamic balance in the anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral directions, whereas static balance did not show superiority over sham.