Objective To investigate the isokinetic muscle strength, balance ability and gait characteristics in patients with ankle fractures, providing references for the formulation of rehabilitation plans and the establishment of efficacy evaluation criteria.

Methods Thirty-six patients with ankle fracture were selected as experimental group, while 20 healthy individuals were recruited as control group. The isokinetic muscle strength of the ankle and hip joints, balance ability, and gait characteristics of the two groups were measured and compared.

Results At angular velocities of 60°/s and 120°/s, the relative peak torque of isokinetic muscle strength for hip abduction and extension in the experimental group was significantly lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). Similarly, the relative peak torque of isokinetic muscle strength for ankle plantarflexion and dorsiflexion in the experimental group was also significantly lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05). The balance instrument measurement indicators (length of center of gravity sway trajectory, peripheral area of center of gravity sway) in the experimental group were significantly greater than those in the control group (P < 0.05). The Tinetti Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA)score in the experimental group was significantly lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). According to the Tinetti POMA scoring criteria, the proportion of individuals at risk of falling (Tinetti POMA score < 24) in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The range of motion of the affected hip joint, stride length, and walking speed during the gait cycle in the experimental group were significantly smaller than those in the control group, while the gait cycle duration was significantly longer (P < 0.05).

Conclusion After a certain period of rehabilitation, there is a certain gap in the isokinetic muscle strength of the ankle and hip joints, balance ability, and gait function between patients with ankle fractures and healthy individuals. Our findings in the study are of great significance for the subsequent formulation of rehabilitation plans and efficacy evaluation.