Effects of SMART Training Intervention Versus Foot Intensive Rehabilitation (FIRE) on Strength and Performance in Athletes With Chronic Ankle Instability

Ankle sprain is one of the most common sports injuries in physically active individuals and causes a high financial burden on the healthcare system. Seventy-four percent of patients with an acute ankle sprain suffered from residual symptoms lasting 29 months after the initial ankle sprain, such as pain, perceived instability, weakness and swelling. Lateral ankle sprains (LASs) are a common injury sustained by individuals who participate in recreational physical activities and sports. After LAS, a large proportion of individuals develop long-term symptoms, which contribute to the development of chronic ankle instability (CAI).The aim of this study to determine the comparative effects of SMART training intervention versus foot intensive rehabilitation (FIRE) on strength and performance in athletes with chronic ankle instability.

The study was a randomized clinical trial with the sample size of 26. The study was conducted at Sports Club Sheikhupura. Subjects was enrolled according to eligibility criteria. Patients was divided into two groups, each with 13 patients. Group A received SMART training intervention and warm-up exercises, while group B received Foot intensive rehabilitation exercises (FIRE) and warm up exercises. The session was around 45 to 60 min on each patient with three sessions per week on alternate days. A total of Three weeks treatment regime was given to the patients and assessment of patient's strength (CAIT) and performance (FAAM) was done at the baseline, after the completion of treatment at three weeks and after six weeks to observe the long-term effects.