Abstract des Autors

This study compares ankle joint strength (plantar flexion and dorsiflexion isokinetic), total work, and range of motion (ROM) values among four different types of ankle joint protective devices: a) Active Ankle, b) Aircast, c) Swede-O-Universal, and d) protective tape wrap. A control treatment (without a protective device) also was employed. The subjects were ten male volunteers, age 23.5 +/- 3.7 yrs. The Cybex 340 isokinetic dynamometer system, using computer-aided programs as well as the Upper Body Exercise Table (UBXT), was employed to measure peak ankle plantar and dosiflexion isokinetic strength, total work, and ROM at 30 , 120, and 180 degrees. In addition, passive ROM was measured with a Zimmer goniometer. Statistical analyses (ANOVA and post hoc analyses) indicated a significant difference between and among treatments for plantar flexion peak isokinetic strength, total work, and ROM variables. The results of this study suggest that ankle joint prophylactic guards do limit force production, total work, and ROM. In addition, there was a difference among Active Ankle, Aircast, Swede-O-Universal, and protective tape ankle support devices regarding the magnitude of ankle strength production and ROM permitted. Verf.-Referat