Effect of Rhythmic Stabilization Technique Versus Conventional Strengthening on Joint Stability, Pain, and Walking Performance in Chronic Ankle Instability.

BACKGROUND: Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is one of the consequences of repeated sprains of the lateral aspect of an ankle joint, characterized by frequent episodes of the ankle giving way, pain, impaired proprioception, and reduced functional performance. In rehabilitation, traditional strengthening exercises are often performed; however, interventions targeting neuromuscular control and dynamic joint stabilization may provide superior outcomes. Rhythmic stabilization technique (RST), a proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation technique, promotes co-contraction of agonist and antagonist muscles, thereby enhancing joint stability and proprioceptive function. METHODS: A total of 58 participants aged 18-40 years with a diagnosis of CAI were recruited for this comparative experimental study. Two groups were formed, and participants were randomly assigned to either group: Group A (RST, n = 29) and Group B (conventional strengthening, n = 29). Both groups underwent a structured four-week intervention program. Outcome measures included the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) for joint stability, Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) for pain intensity, and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) for walking performance. Assessments were performed pre- and postintervention. Statistical analysis was performed. RESULTS: Significant improvement was shown by both groups in all outcome measures following the intervention. Group A showed greater improvement in CAIT scores (16.79 ± 2.47 to 28.10 ± 1.21), NPRS scores (7.66 ± 0.81 to 1.66 ± 0.55), and FAAM scores (45.41 ± 3.52 to 74.28 ± 3.76) compared with Group B. Statistically significant differences were observed after the intervention favoring Group A across all outcomes (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: RST demonstrated superior effectiveness and is considered a valuable evidence-based intervention for the rehabilitation of CAI.