Correlation Between Hallux Flexor Strength and Dynamic Balance in Chronic Ankle Sprain Individuals - A Pilot Study

Background: Lateral ankle sprain stands out as a prevalent injury in both competitive sports and recreational pursuits. Athletes reported residual ankle pain, instability, and weakness. People who have Chronic ankle instability frequently have mechanical deficits, sensorimotor deficits, or a combination of both. Flexor hallucis weakness and decreased toe-flexion strength have been observed in these patients, in order to maintain balance, the extrinsic toe flexors at the ankle joint and all of the toe flexors against the supporting surface through the pads of the planted foot's toes must provide the maximum amount of plantar flexor force. Therefore, the aim of this study is to correlate between hallux flexor strength and dynamic balance in chronic ankle sprains individuals Methods: The study included 20 individuals with Chronic ankle sprain. Each participant’s great toe flexor strength was measured by pinch gauge dynamometer and dynamic balance was assessed using star excursion balance test. Data was analysed using SPSS version 20.0 and p value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Findings: The correlation analysis between the Star Excursion Balance Test scores and hallux flexor strength (lbs) yielded a correlation coefficient (r value) of -0.122 and a corresponding p-value of 0.562. p value >0.05 shows correlation is not statistically significant. Therefore, there is insufficient evidence to conclude a significant correlation between Star Excursion Balance Test scores and hallux flexor strength based on the provided data. Conclusion: According to the study’s findings, the hallux flexor strength does not influence dynamic balance in chronic ankle sprain individuals Key words: Chronic ankle sprain, Chronic ankle instability, Hallux flexor strength, Flexor hallucis longus, Dynamic balance, Star excursion balance test