The Effects of Ankle Joint Mobilization on Dorsiflexion Range and Gait Parameters in Chronic Stroke Survivors: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background: Ankle dorsiflexion movement restriction is a common presentation in most of the chronic stroke survivors. Spasticity and connective tissue changes around ankle, limits dorsiflexion, and interferes with balance and gait performances. Improving functional range of dorsiflexion is essential in post-stroke rehabilitation. Objectives: This meta-analysis analyzed the effects of ankle mobilization techniques in improving dorsiflexion range and gait parameters among chronic stroke survivors. Method: Articles published up to July 2020 were searched in CINAHL, PubMed, Embase, PsyINFO, and OpenGrey. English version of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effects of ankle joint mobilization among chronic stroke subjects, with dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM) and gait parameters as outcome, were included. Characteristics of participants, interventions, outcome measure, and measures of variability were extracted. Methodological quality of included trials was assessed using PEDro scale and Cochrane Collaboration tool for the risk of bias. Pooled standardized mean difference was calculated using random effects model for dorsiflexion ROM, gait velocity, step length, cadence, and timed up and go (TUG). Results: Eight RCTs including 226 stroke patients, with mean methodological score of 6 out of 10 in PEDro, were eligible for this meta-analysis. Ankle joint mobilization demonstrated statistically significant improvement on passive dorsiflexion ROM, gait velocity, step length (affected side), and cadence outcomes. Nonsignificance was found in step length (unaffected side) and in TUG. Conclusion: The ankle mobilization techniques are effective in improving passive dorsiflexion ROM, gait velocity, and cadence in chronic stroke survivors. However, the retention effect of ankle mobilization among stroke subjects is not known.