Electromyostimulation Application on Peroneus Longus Muscle Improves Balance and Strength in American Football Players

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 5 weeks of electromyostimulation (EMS) of the peroneus longus muscle on balance and muscle strength in American Football (AmF) players. Methods: Thirty-two healthy male athletes (4 American Football team training sessions per week, college level) were randomly divided into the EMS and control groups. The EMS applications were conducted on the dominant peroneus longus muscle 3 times per week for 5 weeks, with each application lasting 25 minutes. Before and after the interventions, the strength of ankle dorsiflexion-plantar flexion and foot eversion-inversion was measured with isometric dynamometer and anterior-posterior sway, mediolateral sway, perimeter, and ellipse area were measured with the Technobody Balance System in unilateral stance positions, while eyes were open. Results: Changes between initial and final tests for dorsiflexion and eversion strength, and mediolateral sway for dynamic balance in the groups were significantly different (P = .039, P = .027, P = .030, respectively). Conclusion: The EMS application had positive effects on muscle strength and dynamic balance of AmF players. The EMS can be used to improve isometric strength and dynamic balance in AmF players.