The Effects of Wii Fit Plus Training on Functional Ability in Athletes with Functional Ankle Instability

Summary Background Ankle sprain is a common sport injury that can lead to functional ankle instability. Virtual Reality Training such as Wii Fit Plus may improve functional deficit often associated with functional ankle instability. Material and Methods Fifty male basketball players with and without unilateral, functional ankle instability were assigned into two groups of experimental and control, respectively. All athletes had inclusion criteria to participate in the study. The experimental group performed Wii Fit Plus games including balance training and strengthening exercises three days a week for four weeks. The control group received no training. Before and after training, the functional ability of individuals was assessed by functional performance tests including the figure-of-8 hop, side hop, and single hop tests. Results Significant differences were observed in the figure-of-8 hop and side hop before and after training (p  0.05). Conclusion Based on our results, Wii as a neuromuscular training could be considered for individuals with functional ankle instability as a useful tool for improving the power and performances.