NCT07106476

Attentional Focus in Single-Leg Squat for Ankle Sprain

Effects of Single-Leg Squat Exercises With Different Attentional Focus Techniques on Plantar Pressure Distribution and Posterior Chain Muscle Activation in Individuals With Unilateral Ankle Sprain

• Status: Completed
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 32 (actual)
• Sponsor: Ankara Yildirim Beyazıt University · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 18 Years – 25 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

This study investigates the acute effects of single-leg squat exercises conducted under different attentional focus strategies (internal, external, and no focus) on plantar pressure distribution and posterior chain muscle activation in individuals with a history of unilateral ankle sprain. The study aims to determine whether external focus improves neuromuscular efficiency and postural control compared to internal or no attentional focus.

Detailed description

Unilateral ankle sprain is a common condition that compromises proprioception and neuromuscular control, often leading to chronic ankle instability. This randomized crossover trial examines the impact of attentional focus strategies during single-leg squats on surface electromyography (sEMG) activity of posterior chain muscles (gluteus medius, biceps femoris, lateral gastrocnemius, and peroneus) and plantar pressure parameters (COP path length and ellipse area) using pedobarographic analysis. Results may guide rehabilitation protocols by integrating cognitive-motor strategies for improved stability and performance.

Conditions

• Unilateral Ankle Sprain
• Chronic Ankle Instability
• Muscle Activation
• Postural Control
• Attentional Focus in Exercise
• Neuromuscular Function

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
OTHER	Single-Leg Squat with Internal Focus Intervention	Administration: Participants were instructed to focus on specific muscular or joint movements during single-leg squats (3 sets of 8 repetitions on the affected side, 1-minute rest between sets). Verbal cues included "contract your glutes" or "keep your knee aligned." Data Collected: Surface EMG (Gluteus Medius, Biceps Femoris, Lateral Gastrocnemius, Peroneus) and pedobarographic parameters.
OTHER	External Focus Intervention	Administration: Participants were instructed to focus on the environmental effects of single-leg squats (3 sets of 8 repetitions on the affected side, 1-minute rest between sets). Verbal cues included "push against the floor" or "drive your foot downward." Data Collected: Surface EMG (Gluteus Medius, Biceps Femoris, Lateral Gastrocnemius, Peroneus) and pedobarographic parameters.
OTHER	No Focus Intervention	Administration: Participants performed single-leg squats naturally without specific attentional instructions (3 sets of 8 repetitions on the affected side, 1-minute rest between sets). Data Collected: Surface EMG (Gluteus Medius, Biceps Femoris, Lateral Gastrocnemius, Peroneus) and pedobarographic parameters.

Timeline

• Start date: 2024-10-10
• Primary completion: 2024-10-10
• Completion: 2025-05-12
• First posted: 2025-08-06
• Last updated: 2025-08-06

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Turkey (Türkiye)