The Effects Kinesiotaping® and Proprioceptive Exercises in Rehabilitation Management of Volleyball Players with Chronic Ankle Instability

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic ankle instability (CAI) resulting from repetitive sprains can influence the performance in volleyball players. So, conservative strategies are important to manage such conditions. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of strengthening/proprioceptive exercises (SPE) and Kinesiotaping® (KT) on volleyball players with CAI. Materials and Methods: Thirty-eight volleyball players (Mean±SD, Age: 23.0±2.7 years; Playing years: 5.6±2.2 years) were divided into three groups including SPE (N=13), KT (N=13), and control (N=12). The Thera-Band was used for strengthening exercises and proprioceptive exercises were followed in closed kinetic chain exercises for 8 weeks. The KT method was administrated for peroneus muscles and also tibiofibular ligament. The participants were evaluated by Foot and Ankle Ability Measure, Single-leg Hopping test, and Heel raise test at baseline and after completing the interventions. Results: Both the SPE and KT can significantly increase foot and ankle ability and improve performance in volleyball players with CAI (P<0.001). However, a combination method of treatment is more effective compared to using exercise therapy alone. Conclusion: A combination method involving the SPE and KT can be beneficial to improve the ability and performance and achieving favorable results in volleyball players with CAI.