Effects of short- or long-term use of orthotic interventions on functional performance in individuals with chronic ankle instability: A systematic review.

Background: Individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI) have problems in function. The purpose of this study was to systematically investigate the short- or long-term effects of various orthoses on function of these people.

Methods: Randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies reporting on the short- or long-term effects of orthotic intervention on functional performance in individuals with CAI were identified through PubMed, Cochrane Library, PEDro, MEDLINE via Ovid, and Scopus databases from inception to July 2022. Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed the risk of bias and quality of the studies using ROB tool and PEDro scale, respectively.

Results: Eleven RCTs published from 2012 to 2022 were included in this review. The studies were of a fair or good quality. The risk of bias was low in 50 percent and high in 16.7 percent of the studies. The mSEBT in the posterolateral and posteromedial directions were improved both in the short- and long-term application of orthoses. Single leg hop did not change but single leg stance was improved more in the experimental group who used orthoses for 4 weeks.

Conclusion: Various tapes can improve dynamic balance immediately after application and their effects would last up to 2 months. Therefore, they can be used during training. Athletes with CAI who want to perform better should use the tape at least two weeks before competing to take advantage of its long-term effects. The timing of application of orthotic appliances, needs to be adjusted according to the relevant function.