The Evaluation of the Effect of Balance Training With or Without Shoes on Dynamic Balance and Fatigue Level in Young Athletes With Ankle Sprain – A Randomised Controlled Trial

Background: Ankle sprains are common injuries among athletes and are often associated with recurrent episodes and chronic ankle instability. Impaired dynamic balance and increased fatigue are frequently observed in individuals with ankle injuries. However, the impact of performing balance training with or without shoes on fatigue levels and dynamic balance has not been thoroughly investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of balance training with and without shoes on fatigue levels and dynamic balance in young athletes with ankle sprain. Methods: A total of 88 participants were recruited using convenience sampling. Four participants discontinued the study, leaving data from 84 subjects for final analysis. Participants were randomly divided into two groups using the odd and even number method. Both groups underwent a 4-week balance training intervention—one group trained with shoes, and the other without. Post-intervention, dynamic balance and fatigue levels were assessed using the Y Balance Test and Fatigue Severity Scale. Results: Participants in the without-shoes group reported increased fatigue during the initial first two weeks of training (n = 27, 34), which was not observed in the group training with shoes. However, both groups showed significant improvement in dynamic balance at the end of four weeks of intervention (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Balance training, whether performed with or without shoes, is effective in improving dynamic balance in young athletes with ankle sprain. However, training without shoes may initially increase fatigue and potentially elevate the risk of injury. Keywords: ankle sprain, dynamic balance, fatigue, athletes, shoe training