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Int J Sports Med 2009; 30(5): 383-386
DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1105930
Orthopedics & Biomechanics

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Vertical Leg Stiffness Following Ankle Taping and Bracing

S. Williams 1 , B. L. Riemann 1
  • 1Armstrong Atlantic State University, Health Sciences, Savannah, United States
Further Information

Publication History

accepted after revision October 15, 2008

Publication Date:
06 February 2009 (online)

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Abstract

This study sought to determine if prophylactic ankle taping and bracing influenced vertical leg stiffness during hopping. Twenty healthy and physically active participants completed testing under three ankle stabilizer conditions, ankle tape, semi-rigid ankle brace or control (no stabilizer) during three separate sessions. Immediately following stabilizer application, participants completed an exercise bout prior to completing the hopping. Vertical ground reaction forces were collected during the hopping and were used to calculate vertical leg stiffness. No significant changes in vertical leg stiffness were revealed. These results are likely attributable to the exercise bout causing sufficient loosening of the stabilizers, concurrent proximal joint compensations and/or the possibility that the effect of ankle stabilizers on shock absorption during hopping is more subtle than the effects revealed during drop landings.

Key words

ankle taping - ankle bracing - impact absorption

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Correspondence

Dr. B. L. RiemannPhD, ATC 

Armstrong Atlantic State University

Health Sciences

11935 Abercorn Street

31419-1997 Savannah

United States

Phone: +912/344/29 34

Fax: +912/344/34 90

Email: Bryan.Riemann@armstrong.edu

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