Effect of a Neuromuscular Training Program on the Recurrence Rate of Ankle Injuries among Handball Players

Ahmed, Mostafa Ibrahim; Hassan, Amr Sayed; Osman, Ahmed Mahmoud; Abdel-Halim, Karam Mohamed

doi:10.21608/ajssa.2025.438198.1228

Effect of a Neuromuscular Training Program on the Recurrence Rate of Ankle Injuries among Handball Players

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Professor of Sports Injuries and Physical Rehabilitation, Department of Sports Health Sciences, Faculty of Sports Sciences, Assiut University

² Professor of Handball Training, Department of Sports Training and Movement Sciences, Faculty of Sports Sciences, Assiut University

³ Associate Professor, Department of Sports Health Sciences, Faculty of Sports Sciences, Assiut University

⁴ Researcher, Department of Sports Health Sciences, Faculty of Sports Sciences, Assiut University

10.21608/ajssa.2025.438198.1228

Abstract

Research Design
The present study adopted a quasi-experimental design (one-group pre–post test) to investigate the effect of a 12-week neuromuscular preventive program aimed at reducing recurrent ankle injuries among handball players. The study incorporated systematic assessments before and after the intervention to evaluate changes in ankle stability, balance, and functional performance.
Participants
The study sample included 12 male handball players aged 15–18 years, recruited from Tama Sports Club (Sohag Governorate, Arab Republic of Egypt). All players were registered participants in the club’s youth handball program and had a documented history of recurrent ankle sprain. Each participant was medically cleared for full physical activity prior to program initiation.
Data Collection Instruments
To ensure comprehensive assessment of outcomes, multiple validated tools were employed:
1. Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT):
o Evaluates dynamic balance in eight directions.
o High reliability (ICC = 0.88–0.96).
o Scores standardized relative to leg length.
2. Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM):
o Self-report questionnaire assessing ankle function in daily and sports activities.
o 29 items (ADL and Sports subscales).
o Arabic-validated version used for comprehension and accuracy.
3. Isometric Strength Assessment:
o Measured using a hand-held dynamometer for ankle evertors and invertors.
o Peak torque values (N·m) recorded for both limbs.
4. Landing Error Scoring System (LESS):
o Video-based analysis to evaluate landing biomechanics.
o Assesses knee valgus, trunk alignment, and foot stability during jump-landing.
5. Injury Surveillance Log:
o Weekly log maintained by physiotherapist.
o Records new or recurrent ankle sprains (date, mechanism, severity, absence days).

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