Associations Between Physical Function and Physical Activity in Individuals With Chronic Ankle Instability: An Exploratory Prospective Study

Abstract

Background Individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI) often exhibit decreased physical activity (PA) which may increase sedentary behavior and chronic disease risk. However, factors contributing to decreased PA in individuals with CAI remain unclear. This study aimed to explore associations between physical function and PA in individuals with CAI. Methods Thirty individuals with CAI participated and completed clinical assessments of range of motion (ROM), strength, balance, and functional performance. PA was monitored for 4 weeks using a tracker. Pearson correlations were used to examine associations between physical function and PA, followed by backward selection linear regression to identify the best multifactorial model predicting PA. Results Distance walked and floors climbed were associated with eversion ROM (β = −0.42, p = 0.02; β = −0.40, p = 0.03, respectively). Sedentary minutes were associated with WBLT (β = −0.58, p < 0.001). Light activity minutes were associated with dorsiflexion strength (β = 0.39, p = 0.04). Very active minutes were associated with balance (β = −0.50, p < 0.01) and eversion ROM (β = −0.35, p = 0.04). Number of calories burned was associated with inversion ROM (β = −0.38, p = 0.03). Conclusion This study suggests that eversion ROM, inversion ROM, WBLT, balance, and dorsiflexion strength may be associated with aspects of PA in individuals with CAI. Rehabilitation programs may consider these factors to support PA.