Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) Practice Exam

What is the most appropriate exercise for a client recovering from an ankle sprain?

1. Banded side step

2. Calf raises on a half foam roller

3. Single-leg exercises

4. Jumping on a mini-trampoline

The correct answer is: Single-leg exercises

The choice of single-leg exercises as the most appropriate exercise for a client recovering from an ankle sprain is grounded in their ability to enhance stability, strength, and proprioception in the affected area. Following an ankle sprain, it is critical to gradually reintroduce weight-bearing activities that increase the challenge to the ankle without risking further injury. Single-leg exercises specifically target the muscles surrounding the ankle, enhancing strength in those areas that may have become weak due to the injury. Additionally, these exercises foster balance and proprioception, which are essential for recovery as they help the client regain confidence in their ability to perform daily activities without fear of re-injury. While the other options have their benefits, they might not align as closely with the specific recovery needs associated with an ankle sprain. The banded side step, for instance, focuses more on lateral movement and may not sufficiently emphasize the stabilization required for an injured ankle. Calf raises on a half foam roller may introduce too much instability too soon or engage the calf muscles excessively without adequately addressing the ankle's joint stability. Jumping on a mini-trampoline could pose too much strain on the recovering ankle and might increase the risk of re-injury. Therefore, engaging in single-leg exercises is an effective and