Effects of Pilates Training on Ankle Proprioception, Postural Control and Performance in Footballers With Chronic Ankle Instability

Chronic ankle instability is a frequently encountered issue in footballers, characterized by repeated episodes of the ankle "giving way," resulting in functional limitations and increased risk of future injuries. Conventional rehabilitation protocols often fail to restore optimal neuromuscular control, particularly proprioceptive and postural capabilities. Given the demands of football, this deficit can significantly hinder athletic performance and increase injury susceptibility. While Pilates-based rehabilitation has shown promise in improving core strength, balance, and neuromuscular coordination, there is a paucity of research examining its role in the context of CAI. This study addresses this research gap by assessing the effectiveness of Pilates training in improving key functional deficits among footballers with CAI, potentially informing more effective and sport-specific rehabilitation strategies.

Participants will be randomized into two groups:

1. Pilates Training Group
2. Control Group Intervention The intervention will last [insert duration 8 weeks], with participants attending three supervised sessions per week. Each session will last 60 minutes and will be led by a qualified physical therapist experienced in Pilates and sports rehabilitation.

After the intervention period, post-intervention assessments using the same outcome tools will be conducted by the same blinded assessor under identical conditions to the baseline evaluation. Any adverse events or dropouts will be recorded throughout the study.

Group A: Pilates Intervention Group Duration: 8 weeks (3 sessions/week) Session Duration: 60 minutes per session Equipment Used: Yoga mat, resistance bands, Pilates ring, small stability ball, foam roller.

Structure of Each Session:

Phase Time Activities Warm-Up 10 min Gentle dynamic stretches and mobility exercises (e.g., neck rolls, shoulder circles, hip openers, ankle circles) Core Pilates Training 40 min - Beginner-Intermediate Mat Pilates targeting core, hips, gluts, and lower leg muscles - Sample Exercises: - Pelvic tilts - Hundred - Single-leg stretch - Shoulder bridge with ankle engagement - Side-lying leg circles - Toe taps and leg lifts with ankle focus Cool Down 10 min Static stretching, deep breathing, and relaxation techniques

Progression:

Exercises will be progressed weekly by:

• Increasing repetitions and sets
• Reducing support (e.g., double leg to single leg)
• Incorporating dynamic and unstable surfaces (foam pads, balance discs) Group B: Control Group Duration: 8 weeks (3 sessions/week) Session Duration: 60 minutes per session Equipment Used: Balance board, wobble disc, cones, foam pads, resistance bands.

Structure of Each Session:

Phase Time Activities Warm-Up 10 min Light jogging, ankle mobility drills, dynamic stretching Balance Training 40 min - Static and Dynamic Balance Drills: - Single-leg stance (eyes open/closed) - Wobble board balancing - Star excursion balance test practice - Tandem walking on a line - Forward/backward hops on one leg - Cone drills with reach tasks and steps up Cool Down 10 min Ankle and lower limb stretching, breathing techniques

Progression:

• Decrease base of support
• Introduce perturbations (e.g., partner tapping)
• Dual-task activities (catching, counting, etc.)