Actively Recruiting
Ankle vs. Hip vs. Combined Strengthening in Chronic Ankle Instability A Randomized Controlled Trial
Led by University of Liege · Updated on 2026-05-26
45
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
N/A
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Chronic ankle instability (CAI) commonly develops after a lateral ankle sprain and causes symptoms like ankle "giving way," weakness, and instability that can limit daily activities and sports. Up to 40% of people who sprain their ankle may experience recurrence within a year, with around 30% developing persistent symptoms. This study investigates which of three muscle strengthening programs—ankle-focused, hip-focused, or combined ankle-hip—best improves function, strength, balance, and ankle mobility in people with CAI aged 18 to 35 years. Participants are randomly assigned to one of three groups after a baseline assessment. Each group completes a four-week program with three supervised sessions per week using isometric exercises measured by a handheld dynamometer. The ankle program targets plantarflexion, dorsiflexion, inversion, and eversion; the hip program targets hip abductors, external rotators, and extensors; and the combined program alternates these exercises. Each session includes a warm-up, familiarization, and high-intensity isometric contractions. Participants attend three assessment visits: before training, immediately after the four-week program, and at a follow-up time point. Assessments include functional questionnaires, sports participation reports, and tests of ankle and hip muscle strength, endurance (Heel Rise Test), balance (Modified Y-Balance Test), agility (Side Hop Test), and ankle dorsiflexion mobility (Weight-Bearing Lunge Test). Data are securely stored anonymized for 20 years, and participation is voluntary with the option to withdraw at any time.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Ankle vs. Hip vs. Combined Strengthening in Chronic Ankle Instability
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- History of at least one major ankle sprain at least 12 months before joining the study, with inflammatory symptoms and at least one interrupted day of physical activity
- At least two episodes of feeling like an "unstable" ankle in the six months before the study
- Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) score less than 24
- Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) Sport score below 80%
- Age between 18 and 35 years
- Ability to understand study procedures and provide written informed consent
You will not qualify if you...
- Recent injury less than three months before joining the study
- History of surgery on musculoskeletal structures of the lower limbs
- History of lower limb fracture requiring realignment
- Diagnosis of neuromuscular disease
- Current swelling or pain in the lower limb during the study
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 1 day
Participants undergo comprehensive baseline evaluations including strength, functional, and mobility tests relevant to chronic ankle instability.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 4 weeks
Participants complete one of three isometric strengthening programs targeting ankle, hip, or both ankle and hip muscles. The program includes three supervised sessions per week for four weeks, focusing on high-intensity isometric exercises.
Three visits per week for 4 weeks (in-person supervised sessions)
Duration - 1 day
Participants are evaluated at the end of the treatment period to assess changes in strength, balance, mobility, and functional endurance.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 1 day
Participants return for follow-up evaluations four weeks after the intervention to assess the durability of treatment effects on ankle instability and related functions.
1 visit (in-person)
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
University of Liege
Liège, Belgium, 4000
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
A
Aude Aguilaniu Aude, PhD
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
SINGLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
3
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