Introduction: Ankle sprain is one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries and often leads to the development of chronic ankle instability (CAI). CAI is associated with mechanical and functional changes, including proprioceptive deficits, impaired neuromuscular control, and altered muscle activity. Individuals with CAI exhibit altered patterns of muscle activity during walking, which affects their biomechanics and increases the risk of further injuries. Purpose: The purpose of the thesis is to identify changes in muscle activity during walking in individuals with CAI, based on a literature review. Methods: Literature was searched in the PubMed electronic database using the keywords »ankle instability« AND »muscle activ*« AND »walking«. Open-access studies published within the last ten years were included. Results: Considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria, seven studies were included in the final review. CAI affects muscle activity, resulting in altered activation and coordination of the lower limb and trunk muscles. Research confirms altered muscle function, particularly in the peroneus longus and gluteus medius muscles. The peroneus longus is often activated earlier, with higher intensity, and for longer periods of time to improve joint stability compared to healthy individuals. However, the results are partly contradictory, as some studies report lower activity of this muscle and consequently less effective force absorption. The results for the gluteus medius muscle are similarly contradictory, with some studies showing decreased activation and others showing increased activation as a compensatory strategy to maintain balance and stability during walking. Discussion and Conclusion: Research results vary. Some results support the original hypotheses, others contradict them. These differences may be due to variations in the participant samples, the protocols used, or the effectiveness of the compensatory strategies across individuals. Altered muscle activity may partially compensate for reduced ankle stability, but such adaptations may also lead to increased muscle fatigue and overuse. Despite all the limitations, the studies reviewed contribute to a better understanding of the biomechanical and neuromuscular adaptations associated with CAI. This knowledge will allow the development of more effective physiotherapeutic approaches to improve joint stability and prevent recurrent injuries. Based on the literature review, individualized treatment and the pursuit of greater symmetry between limbs appear to be appropriate. Further research in this area is encouraged.
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