Unstable ankles respond to nerve stimulation

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Biomechanics July 2005 www.biomech.com

Unstable ankles respond to nerve stimulation

By: Jordana Bieze

Electrical stimulation of the peroneal nerve could reduce episodes

of " giving way " in patients with ankle instability, according to

research from the University of Delaware.

Twelve patients with self-reported ankle instability received a

single 10-minute dose of electrical stimulation delivered via one

needle inserted in the stabilizing ligaments of the subtalar joint

and another needle inserted in the proximal belly of the peroneus

longus muscle.

One month after treatment, all patients reported significant

improvement in their perceived levels of instability and strength.

The average number of episodes of giving way decreased by 79%.

Increases in average plantar flexor torque resulted in significant

improvements in functional strength ratios (see table).

The findings were presented in June at the ACSM meeting.

Change in average torque ratios:

DF (CON)/PF (ECC) @ 30 degrees /sec Pre:0.26 Post:0.19

DF (ECC)/PF (CON) @ 30 degrees /sec Pre:0.64 Post: 0.38

DF (ECC)/PF (CON) @120 degrees /sec Pre:1.04 Post: 0.63

DF = dorsiflexors, PF = plantar flexors, CON = concentric, ECC =

eccentric