1Faculty of Physiotherapy, Dr. M. G. R. Educational and Research Institute University, Maduravoyal, Chennai-600095
2School of Physiotherapy, VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies, Pallavaram, Chennai, Tamil nadu-600043
Functional balance is the integration of static and dynamic balance training to maintain or improve activities of daily living and quality of life. But, there is a lack of study examining effects of functional balance training programme (FTP) on novice runners.
To compare the effects of isolated ankle strengthening exercise (IASE) and FTP in improving postural control among the novice runners.
A total of 30 novice runners were recruited by the simple random sampling (random number generator) to participate in this two group pretest-posttest, single blinded randomized controlled study. Recruited subjects were randomly divided into two groups, group A and group B. The novice runners in group A received, IASE. While in group B, the runners received FTP. Both the group performed the prescribed exercised for 4 weeks (5 days/week, a total of 20 sessions). Baseline and post exercise changes after 4 weeks were documented by star excursion balance test (SEBT) and foot and ankle ability measure (FAAM) and analyzed.
Group B demonstrated significance difference (p<0.05) in SEBT and FAAM when compared to group A.
FTP is more beneficial in improving postural control and thereby could have the potential to reduce risk of injury when compared to IASE among the novice runners.
Exercise, foot, foot exercises, foot muscles, middle distance runners
