Enhancing Post-Surgical Rehabilitation Outcomes in Patients with Chronic Ankle Instability: Impact of Subtalar Joint Axis Balance Exercises Following Arthroscopic Modified Broström Operation

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of subtalar joint axis-based balance exercises on the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) thickness, ankle strength, and ankle stability after an arthroscopic modified Broström operation (AMBO) for chronic ankle instability (CAI). The study included 47 patients diagnosed with CAI who underwent AMBO and were randomly divided into three groups: control ( = 11), general balance exercise ( = 17), and subtalar joint axis balance exercise ( = 19), regardless of the affected area. Participants in the exercise rehabilitation group performed exercises for 60 min twice a week for six weeks, starting six weeks after AMBO. ATFL thickness, ankle strength, and ankle dynamic stability were measured using musculoskeletal ultrasonography, Biodex, and Y-balance test, respectively, before and after treatment. Compared with the remaining groups, the subtalar joint axis balance exercise group had reduced ATFL thickness ( = 0.000), improved ankle strength for eversion ( = 0.000) and inversion ( = 0.000), and enhanced ankle stability ( = 0.000). The study results suggest that subtalar joint axis-based balance exercises may contribute to the early recovery of the ankle joint after AMBO.