The Effect of a Proprioceptive Balance Board Training Program for the Prevention of Ankle Sprains

TLDR

Ankle sprains are the most common injuries in sports. The study evaluates a proprioceptive balance board program for preventing ankle sprains in volleyball players. Teams were randomized by region into intervention (balance board training) and control groups, with coaches recording weekly player exposure. The intervention reduced ankle sprain risk (risk difference 0.4/1000 hours, 95 % CI 0.1–0.7), especially among players with prior sprains, but increased knee overuse injuries in those with a history of knee injury, indicating a potential contraindication for such players.

Abstract

Ankle sprains are the most common injuries in a variety of sports.A proprioceptive balance board program is effective for prevention of ankle sprains in volleyball players.Prospective controlled study.There were 116 male and female volleyball teams followed prospectively during the 2001-2002 season. Teams were randomized by 4 geographical regions to an intervention group (66 teams, 641 players) and control group (50 teams, 486 players). Intervention teams followed a prescribed balance board training program; control teams followed their normal training routine. The coaches recorded exposure on a weekly basis for each player. Injuries were registered by the players within 1 week after onset.Significantly fewer ankle sprains in the intervention group were found compared to the control group (risk difference = 0.4/1000 playing hours; 95% confidence interval, 0.1-0.7). A significant reduction in ankle sprain risk was found only for players with a history of ankle sprains. The incidence of overuse knee injuries for players with history of knee injury was increased in the intervention group. History of knee injury may be a contraindication for proprioceptive balance board training.Use of proprioceptive balance board program is effective for prevention of ankle sprain recurrences.