Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To determine whether a single high-velocity, low-amplitude thrust manipulation to the talocrural joint altered ankle range of motion.

DESIGN:

A randomized, controlled and blinded study.

SUBJECTS:

Asymptomatic male and female volunteers (N = 41).

METHODS:

Subjects were randomly assigned into either an experimental group (n = 20) or a control group (n = 21). Both ankles of subjects in the experimental group were manipulated by using a single high-velocity, low-amplitude thrust to the talocrural joint. Pretest and posttest measurements of passive dorsiflexion range of motion were taken.

RESULTS:

No significant changes in dorsiflexion range of motion were detected between manipulated ankles and those of control subjects. A significantly greater pretest dorsiflexion range of motion existed in those ankles in which manipulation produced an audible cavitation.

CONCLUSION:

Manipulation of the ankle does not increase dorsiflexion range of motion in asymptomatic subjects. Ankles that displayed a greater pretest range of dorsiflexion were more likely to cavitate, raising the possibility that ligament laxity may be associated with the tendency for ankles to cavitate.