The effect of a proprioceptive balance board training program for the prevention of ankle sprains: a prospective controlled trial.

BACKGROUND Ankle sprains are the most common injuries in a variety of sports. HYPOTHESIS A proprioceptive balance board program is effective for prevention of ankle sprains in volleyball players. STUDY DESIGN Prospective controlled study. METHODS There were 116 male and female volleyball teams followed prospectively during the 2001-2002 season. Teams were randomized by 4 geographical regions to an intervention group (66 teams, 641 players) and control group (50 teams, 486 players). Intervention teams followed a prescribed balance board training program; control teams followed their normal training routine. The coaches recorded exposure on a weekly basis for each player. Injuries were registered by the players within 1 week after onset. RESULTS Significantly fewer ankle sprains in the intervention group were found compared to the control group (risk difference = 0.4/1000 playing hours; 95% confidence interval, 0.1-0.7). A significant reduction in ankle sprain risk was found only for players with a history of ankle sprains. The incidence of overuse knee injuries for players with history of knee injury was increased in the intervention group. History of knee injury may be a contraindication for proprioceptive balance board training. CONCLUSIONS Use of proprioceptive balance board program is effective for prevention of ankle sprain recurrences.