Ankle braces and tape are often used as a means of preventing ankle trauma. However, there is debate over which prophylactics are the most effective and how this effectiveness is achieved. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the effects that prophylactics had on postural stability when tested on an unstable platform. Subjects: Twenty healthy subjects (10 male, 10 female) with a mean age of 25.1 years were used in this study. Methodology: The three variables used to evaluate postural control were the overall stability index, the medial/lateral stability index, and the anterior/posterior stability index (calculated by the average variance the platform deviated from level in the respective direction). These variables were calculated by the Biodex Balance System. Results: Results obtained on these measures indicated the use of either a tape or brace was detrimental to postural control in healthy subjects (α Conclusion: The adverse effects on postural control. These findings offer information therapists can use when suggesting the use of prophylactics.
| Date of Award | Jan 1 1998 |
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| Original language | English |
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