Investigation of tri-planar range of motion of ankle according to gender using photogrammetry technique

The risk of ankle sprain during activities is very high. Therefore, studying ankle range of motion is important in order prevent any injuries. Photogrammetry is used to investigate tri-planar range of motion of ankle. This study determines the differences in mobility of ankle between genders. Twenty participants (10 females and 10 males) were recruited, and fourteen retro-reflective targets were mounted on the skin of each participant's right foot. Imaging sensors were self-calibrated using a bundle adjustment technique and the images were downloaded with Australis photogrammetric software. The results show that the range of motion of sagittal in the plantar flexion turn in place was significant (.008) and the mean of the angle was great for females, while in the transverse plane, there were no significant differences between men and women. In the coronal plane, the eversion in turn in place was significant (.02); the differences between genders was (1.64) and the maximal mean inversion of the ankle was great for males (6.88).The results show that the women have a higher angular plantar flexion than men, and that the maximum mean angular of inversion for men is higher than women. The maximum mean angle of internal/external rotation of the ankle for males and females is very similar (there is no significant difference). These results may contribute to a better understanding of the influence of gender on the mobility of the ankle.