Neurocognitive Enrichment Testing in Chronic Ankle Instability

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This randomized crossover study investigates how neurocognitive factors affect balance and functional performance in athletes with chronic ankle instability (CAI). Participants perform standard and cognitively enriched tests, including internal and external focus of attention and a dual-task condition, to measure changes in dynamic balance and various hop metrics. Outcomes include dynamic balance, vertical jump, single-leg hops, figure-of-8 hop performance, and dual-task cost. The goal is to understand how neurocognitive loading influences performance relevant to sports readiness and safe return to play. The findings may inform assessment protocols and rehabilitation strategies for CAI athletes.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged between 16 and 25 years.
* Actively participating as a licensed football, basketball, or volleyball athlete.
* History of at least one lateral ankle sprain occurring ≥12 months before study participation, associated with pain and/or swelling and resulting in at least one day of restricted physical activity.
* History of recurrent ankle instability, defined as at least two episodes of giving way during the previous 6 months and/or recurrent ankle sprains.
* Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) score ≤25.
* Participating in regular sports training at least 3 times per week.
* No ankle surgery within the previous 6 months.
* Able to safely perform all functional performance tests.
* Willing to undergo assessment of the more symptomatic ankle; in participants with bilateral chronic ankle instability, the ankle with the lower CAIT score will be evaluated.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Acute ankle sprain within the previous 6 weeks accompanied by significant pain, swelling, or functional limitation.
* History of major lower-extremity surgery (e.g., knee, hip, or ankle surgery).
* History of neurological, vestibular, or systemic disorders that may affect balance or motor performance.
* Visual or cognitive impairments that could interfere with test performance.
* Lower-extremity injuries other than ankle instability within the previous 6 months that may negatively affect functional performance.

Where it's running

• Istanbul Nisantasi University
  Istanbul, sarıyer, Turkey (Türkiye) Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Elif Aleyna Yazgan, Phd
• Email: elifaleyna.yazgan@nisantasi.edu.tr
• Phone: 000000000

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.