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Neuromuscular electrical stimulation on the tibialis anterior vs viscoelastic surface in the re-education of ankle proprioception. A pilot study

Abstract:

Objective: To analyse the differences in the path of the centre of pressures during the performance of 3 static balance tests, which included two of the techniques used in the rehabilitation of ankle sprain rehabilitation. Material and method: Fourteen healthy subjects, without ligament loosening in the ankle were recruited for the study (8 male and 6 female) voluntary participated in this study, all of them physically active, with a mean age of 19.9 ± 3.8 years. The path of the centre of pressures was measured during monopodal balance tests on a force platform (60 s last), in three different conditions: on stable surface (force platform), on a viscoelastic surface, and during the application of electrical stimulation on the tibialis anterior muscle. Results: The anterior-posterior path of the centre of pressures was greater in the test with electrical stimulation than in the tests on the stable surface (P<.01), and on the viscoelastic surface (P<.05).The mean position of the centre of pressures was more lateral (53.00±7.60mm) and more posterior (128.40±10,70mm) in the test on the viscoelastic surface. The greatest excursion areas of the centre of pressures were found in the test with neuromuscular electrical stimulation (1115.96±411.40mm2). Conclusions: Greater anterior-posterior path length and excursion areas and a more posterior mean position of the centre of pressures were found in the neuromuscular electrical stimulation test. We also found greater total excursions and velocity, and a more lateral mean position of the centre of pressures in the viscoelastic surface tests. © 2010 Consell Català de l'Esport. Generalitat de Catalunya.