To analyze the applicability of Guo's massage system for tendon management in the treatment of chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI).

Randomized controlled trial design. A total of 82 CLAI patients in our hospital from January 2021 to January 2022 were selected as observation subjects and divided into two groups using a random number table method, with 41 patients in each group. The control group received ankle rehabilitation exercise (3 times for 1 course, 6 courses), while the research group received Guo's massage and tendon manipulation therapy (3 times for 1 course, 6 courses). Before and after treatment, ankle joint range of motion and Y-balance tests were performed. The American Association of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (AOFAS) ankle posterior foot function score was used to evaluate ankle joint function, the VAS scale was used to evaluate patient pain, and the Foot Ankle Energy Scale (FAAM) was used to evaluate the degree of ankle joint function damage and evaluate clinical efficacy.

The total effective rate was 95.12%(39/41) in the research group and that in the control group was 78.05%(32/41) (χ²=5.15, P=0.023). The range of motion of plantar flexion, range of dorsiflexion, varus range of motion, valgus range of motion, anterior extension distance, posterior inward extension distance, and posterior outward extension distance increased in the research group after treatment were significantly higher than those in the control group (t=11.32, 14.02, 8.70, 18.09, P<0.01). Forward, rear Inner, and rear outer extension distances of the ankle Y-balance test in the research group were significantly higher than those of the control group. The AOFAS score in the research group was significantly higher than that of the control group (t=5.94, P<0.01), VAS score was significantly lower than that of the control group (t=13.38, P<0.01). The daily activity score and exercise score in FAAM in the research group were significantly higher than those in the control group (t=9.14, 14.99, P<0.01).

The use of Guo's massage system for tendon management can improve the ankle function of CLAI patients, reduce their pain level, and promote the recovery of the patients.

Ankle joint; Sprains and strains; Chronic lateral ankle instability; Guo's massage system for tendon management; Ankle range of motion; Ankle function