Impact of lateral ankle sprains on physical function, range of motion, isometric strength and balance in professional soccer players
Objective Lateral ankle sprains (LASs) are prevalent in soccer and can affect long-term performance, injury recurrence and risk for chronic ankle instability. This case–control study examined functional impairments associated with LAS in professional soccer players aged 17–21.Methods 40 players were divided into 2 groups: 21 with a history of LAS and 19 healthy matched controls. Functional assessments included the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), Y Balance Test (YBT), Weight Bearing Lunge Test, Heel Rise Test, Side Hop Test, and ankle and hip isometric strength measurements.Results Soccer players with a history of LAS exhibited significant deficits in dynamic balance, particularly in the anterior and composite YBT scores, with moderate effect sizes (p<0.05). FAAM scores also revealed functional limitations in daily activities and sports performance for the LAS group. No significant differences were observed in strength or mobility measures, including the Heel Rise, Side Hop and i
