The Effects of a Balance Training Program With and Without Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Dynamic Balance in Recreationally Active Young Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial

(1) Background: Dynamic balance plays a crucial role in maintaining ankle stability and preventing injuries, particularly in active individuals. Instability devices are commonly utilized to enhance ankle strength and stability, and there is growing interest in integrating these tools with novel modalities, such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), to maximize benefits. This study aimed to compare the effects of a 4-week balance training program performed on a selective instability device alone or combined with tDCS on dynamic balance in recreationally active young adults. (2) Methods: Twenty participants were randomized into two groups: one performing balance exercises on the Blackboard device and another combining the exercises with tDCS. Dynamic balance was measured at baseline, midway, and post-intervention using the Y-Balance Test and the Emery Test. (3) Results: Both groups showed significant improvements in balance performance, with increased reach distances and stability times (p = 0.001 and p = 0.04, respectively), after 4 weeks. However, the addition of tDCS did not yield additional benefits over balance training alone (p > 0.05). (4) Conclusions: These findings underscore the value of instability device-based balance training for enhancing dynamic balance while questioning the utility of tDCS as a combined therapy in healthy individuals.