Introduction: Chronic ankle instability is a pathological condition that relatively commonly develops as a result of inadequate rehabilitation and recurrent ankle sprains. It is associated with proprioceptive and neuromuscular alterations, a subjective feeling of joint instability, and may also be accompanied by pain. It most frequently occurs in a young, physically active population and can lead to reduced levels of physical activity and a decreased quality of life. It is assumed that, as a consequence, individuals develop compensatory adaptations not only at the ankle joint but throughout the entire lower kinetic chain. Purpose: The aim of this review was to determine whether biomechanical alterations occur in individuals with chronic ankle instability and, if so, to identify their nature. Methods: A literature search was conducted in the PubMed and PEDro databases using the keywords »chronic ankle instability AND biomechanics or lower limb biomechanics«. Studies published in English within the past 15 years that compared lower limb biomechanics between individuals with chronic ankle instability and healthy controls were included. Meta-analyses, review articles, and studies not relevant to the research topic were excluded. Results: A total of five studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were included in the review. These studies investigated changes in kinetics, kinematics, and muscle activity during various movement tasks. The analysis revealed substantial variability in the observed alterations at the ankle, knee, and hip, as well as in the associated musculature. Discussion and conclusion: Despite the considerable variability in findings, it can be concluded that biomechanical alterations are likely present in individuals with chronic ankle instability, although these changes are not consistent. The use of compensatory strategies appears to depend on the demands of the task, as well as on individual-specific deficits. Future research should aim to standardize methodologies and include larger sample sizes to obtain more representative results.
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