Research Article

Plyometric Training on Balance and Foot Function among Collegiate Football Players with Lateral Ankle Sprains: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Abstract

Background: Ankle sprains are common in competitive sports, especially football, accounting for about 15–17% of collegiate athletic injuries. Lateral ankle sprains occur frequently due to rapid directional changes, jumping, and intense landings. Plyometric training, involving explosive and dynamic movements, is gaining attention for its role in rehabilitation and injury prevention. The aim of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of plyometric training on balance and foot function among collegiate football players with lateral ankle sprains.
Material and Methods: Collegiate football players with lateral ankle sprain (LAS) completed a four-week plyometric training program consisting of three thirty-minute sessions per week that included Pogo Hops, Lateral Jumps, Forward Jumps and Single Leg Split Squats. The values of Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) and Foot Function Index (FFI) scores pre- and post-intervention were compared with paired-sample t-test with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: The study showed significant improvements in SEBT scores increased in the right limb (anterior: 80.400 ± 1.265 to 80.800 ± 1.206 cm, p<0.05) and left limb (anterior: 80.400 ± 1.265 to 80.850 ± 1.132 cm, p<0.05), with similar gains in posteromedial and posterolateral directions. FFI scores also improved for both limbs (right: 80.450 ± 1.165 to 80.850 ± 1.132; left: 80.550 ± 1.235 to 81.000 ± 1.179, p<0.05), indicating better balance and foot function.
Conclusions: Plyometric Training would typically emphasize its effectiveness in enhancing balance and foot function in collegiate football players recovering from lateral ankle sprains.

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Department of Nursing, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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Devanand Y, Subramanian SS, Bai P, Vianni DD, Singarayar EK, Alhalaiqa F. Plyometric Training on Balance and Foot Function among Collegiate Football Players with Lateral Ankle Sprains: A Quasi-Experimental Study. jmr. 2025;(-).