Acute effects of posterior tibial nerve percutaneous neuromodulation on postural control in individuals with chronic ankle instability

Background Chronic ankle instability (CAI) affects approximately 46% of individuals after ankle sprains, disrupting ligaments, muscles, and joint receptors, and impairing postural control. Percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) is a minimally invasive neuromodulation technique that may enhance neuromuscular function. This study aimed to evaluate the acute effects of ultrasound-guided PTNS on postural control in individuals with CAI compared to healthy controls. Methods This non-randomized controlled study included 28 participants: 14 with CAI (mean age 22.85 ± 5.02 years; BMI 24.83 ± 4.28) and 14 healthy controls (mean age 21.86 ± 3.44 years; BMI 22.8 ± 3.29). CAI diagnosis was confirmed by scores 0.05). Post-PTNS, no significant intergroup differences were observed, except a reduction over time in anteroposterior center of pressure amplitude (ACPap) in the CAI group with eyes closed ( p = 0.023). No significant intragroup changes occurred. Conclusions Although PTNS did not produce general improvements in postural control, the reduction in anteroposterior sway with eyes closed suggests a targeted neuromodulatory effect. These preliminary results support further research into PTNS as a complementary approach for managing CAI. Trial registration: ISRCTN177653522