RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07376915

Acute Effect of Graded Motor Imagery on Ankle Rehabilitation: A Pilot Study

The Acute Effect of Graded Motor Imagery-Based Mental Preparation on Ankle Rehabilitation: A Pilot Clinical Study

Sponsor

Istanbul University - Cerrahpasa

Enrollment

48 participants

Start Date

Feb 9, 2026

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Ankle instability Healthy (Controls)

Summary

The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the immediate and short-term effects of the Graded Motor Imagery (GMI) method on individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI). In this context, the effects of the Graded Motor Imagery intervention on pain level, muscle stiffness, muscle strength, functional performance, and subjective instability level will be investigated. Additionally, these effects will be comparatively analyzed with an age- and sex-matched control group consisting of healthy individuals.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 YearsMax Age: 40 Years

Inclusion Criteria5

Aged between 18 and 40 years.
Diagnosed with chronic ankle instability (CAIT ≤ 24).
History of an acute ankle sprain occurring more than 3 months prior to enrollment.
Has not received ankle rehabilitation treatment.
Voluntarily participated in this study

Exclusion Criteria3

Vestibular or neurological disorders
Other lower extremity injuries
History of surgery

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Interventions

OTHERgraded motor imagery

The Graded Motor Imagery (GMI) program will be applied six consecutive days nd will consist of three progressive stages: Laterality Training: Participants will perform right-left ankle discrimination tasks using validated foot and ankle images. Accuracy and response time will be recorded. Motor Imagery: Participants will mentally rehearse ankle movements such as dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, inversion, and eversion without performing the motion. Imagery tasks will progress from simple movements to functional patterns based on tolerance. Mirror Therapy: A mirror will be placed in the midsagittal plane, allowing participants to view the reflection of the non-affected ankle while performing movements. The visual illusion of normal movement is intended to improve motor control and proprioception.