Improving foot and ankle function for older adults
A framework for feasible translation to enhance foot and ankle function in aging and mobility
New approaches to improve foot and ankle function so older adults can walk more easily and use less energy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11168783 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research will compare how feet and ankles generate and lose mechanical power in older versus younger people using walking tests, energy-use measurements, and advanced motion analysis. Participants will walk through a variety of everyday tasks while researchers record metabolic cost and detailed biomechanics to find where energy is wasted. The team will use biomechanical and bioenergetic modeling to link foot structure and passive tissues with reduced push-off during walking. Findings will guide possible exercises, devices, or treatments aimed at improving walking efficiency and independence.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Older adults who have difficulty walking, experience fatigue during walking, or show reduced ankle push-off power are the most likely candidates.
Not a fit: People whose mobility problems are primarily due to central nervous system diseases (for example advanced Parkinson's disease or chronic stroke) or those who already have normal foot and ankle function are less likely to benefit directly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new devices, therapies, or exercise programs that make walking easier, less tiring, and safer for older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Some prior work strengthening calf muscles or using assistive devices has improved walking, but directly targeting foot structural mechanics is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Franz, Jason R — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Franz, Jason R
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.