Rehabilitation and Prevention Interventions for Ankle Sprain Injuries in Adult Men’s Football players: An Exercise package for prevention

Abstract

The main aim of this thesis was to create an exercise program for prevention of ankle sprain injuries in men’s football focusing on ankle stability which is evidence-based and scientifically proven. This program can be used by football players, instructors as well as coaches as preventive measures. Key factors contributing to ankle sprains, such as weak ankle muscles, poor proprioception, loss of neuromuscular control and history of previous injuries identified and targeted in the exercise program. The product as a prevention exercise program was designed to be integrated into regular football training sessions to ensure consistent use and effectiveness in collaboration with the FC Ylivieska men’s football team.

The theoretical framework of this study was presented which consisted of all the essential part of this thesis such as anatomy, biomechanics of the injury, factors effecting the ankle sprain injuries, rehabilitation and prevention strategies of ankle sprains. Key concepts were focused such as proprioception, neuromuscular control and the biomechanics of the ankle joint are explored to provide solid foundation for the product. The product of this thesis is a targeted exercise program featuring clear instructions and pictures to guide through exercises. This easy-to-use program integrates seamlessly into regular training regimes. This thesis concludes that interventions of such training programs can also be incorporated into rehabilitation strategies for optimal recoveries as well as prevention interventions with regular training sessions enhancing ankle stability and reduces injury risks.