Effects of Combined Exercise and Kinesio Taping on Balance and Jump Performance in Athletes With Chronic Ankle Instability

Chronic ankle instability is a frequent condition among athletes and is associated with recurrent ankle sprains, impaired proprioception, muscle weakness, and deficits in postural control. These impairments may negatively influence functional and athletic performance and increase the risk of further injury. Neuromuscular rehabilitation programs that combine balance and strength training are commonly used to address these deficits; however, evidence regarding the additional value of adjunctive interventions such as kinesio taping remains limited.

This randomized controlled trial was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of a structured neuromuscular rehabilitation program on static balance, jump performance, and ankle muscle strength in athletes with chronic ankle instability, and to determine whether the addition of kinesio taping provides additional effects. Participants meeting the eligibility criteria for chronic ankle instability were recruited and randomly allocated to one of three study groups.

The intervention consisted of a supervised six-week rehabilitation program focused on balance and strength exercises targeting the ankle joint. One intervention group received kinesio taping before each training session in addition to the exercise program, while the other intervention group performed the same rehabilitation program without taping. The control group continued its usual activities without receiving the specific rehabilitation program.

Participants underwent laboratory-based assessments before and after the intervention period. Static postural control was assessed using force-plate measurements. Jump performance was evaluated using countermovement jump and drop jump assessments, including countermovement jump height, drop jump ground contact time, and the flight time-to-contact time ratio as an indicator of reactive performance. Ankle muscle strength was assessed by measuring isometric inversion and eversion strength using a dynamometer.

The study design allowed comparison of changes in static postural control, jump performance, and ankle muscle strength among the three groups following the six-week intervention. The findings are intended to provide clinically relevant evidence for physiotherapists and sports rehabilitation professionals regarding exercise-based conservative management of chronic ankle instability and the potential additional effects of kinesio taping.

Inclusion criteria

History of at least one ankle sprain occurring at least 12 months prior to enrollment.

Presence of clinical signs of pain and inflammation. Most recent ankle sprain occurring at least 3 months before study inclusion. History of more than two episodes of "giving way". Self-reported ankle instability assessed using the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) with a score of ≤25 points.

Exclusion criteria

History of musculoskeletal surgery. Presence of orthopedic conditions such as lower-limb fractures. Any musculoskeletal injury within the 3 months preceding the study. Known neurological disorders that could influence balance performance. Known vestibular disorders that could influence balance performance.