The differences between flat sole and cushioning sole footwear on change-of direction skill performance among futsal players with chronic ankle injuries

Change of direction ability is essential in futsal, requiring rapid movement control that can be impaired in players suffering from chronic ankle instability due to reduced proprioception and neuromuscular control. This study examined whether shoe sole structure influences change of direction performance by comparing flat sole and cushioning sole footwear in ten male recreational futsal players with confirmed chronic ankle injuries. A crossover experimental design was used where participants completed agility t tests under both shoe conditions separated by a twenty four hour washout period. Researchers measured completion times to analyze if footwear design significantly impacts force transmission joint loading and agility performance in injured futsal players.