The effect of stress-induced cortisol increase on the sense of ankle proprioception

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study is to analyze the effect of stress-induced cortisol increase on the sense of ankle proprioception.

Patients and methods: Between April 2016 and May 2016, a total of 60 students (30 males, 30 females; mean age: 19.2 +/- 1.5 years; range, 19 to 20 years) from Inonu University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Freshmen were included in the study. Separate measurements were made for the right and left ankle to make ankle proprioception measurements a month before the committee exam during their relaxed period using a device designed with digital inclinometer. The sense of ankle proprioception was measured at 10 degrees dorsiflexion (DF), 11 degrees plantar flexion (PF), and 25 degrees PF angles with open eyes and closed eyes using active reproduction test. Salivary samples were taken for stress assessment and State Trait Anxiety Inventory-I (STAI-I) was conducted. The same tests were repeated on the day of committee exam.

Results: Test results showed no statistically significant difference between the right and left ankle proprioception measurements of 10 degrees DF, 11 degrees PF, and 25 degrees PF angles with open eyes (p>0.05). However, a statistically significant difference was found between the right and left ankle proprioception scores at the same angles with closed eyes (p<0.05). According to the Wilcoxon analysis conducted for the comparison of the relaxed and stressed periods of cortisol and STAI-I inventory, a statistically significant difference was found (p<0.05). The Spearman's Rho analysis showed no significant correlation between the right and left ankle proprioception scores and cortisol and STAI-I with open eyes, while there was a statistically significantly positive direction and low correlation between the same angles with closed eyes.

Conclusion: Our study results show that the increase in the stress-related cortisol is negative for the ankle proprioception sense.