Ankle vs. Hip vs. Combined Strengthening for chronic ankle instability
Official title: Ankle vs. Hip vs. Combined Strengthening in Chronic Ankle Instability: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Run by University of Liege · NCT07606534 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A randomized trial tests whether ankle-only, hip-only, or combined strengthening programs best improve function and stability in people with chronic ankle instability.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 35 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 45 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Liege Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Liège) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 2, 2026 |
| Main results expected | September 2027 |
| Study ends | September 2027 |
| Registry record updated | May 26, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07606534 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults 18–35 with a history of at least one major ankle sprain, repeated feelings of instability in the past six months, and CAIT < 24 and FAAM Sport < 80%.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients without chronic ankle instability or those outside the age range or with recent injuries/surgeries may not benefit from these interventions.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This randomized controlled trial compares three targeted strengthening approaches for chronic ankle instability: ankle-specific isometric training, hip-specific isometric training, and a combined ankle–hip program. Participants are adults with a history of ankle sprains and ongoing instability, meeting predefined clinical criteria. Outcomes focus on functional ability, muscle strength, balance, and ankle mobility. The study aims to identify which approach yields the greatest improvements in stability and activity participation. Conducted at the University of Liège, it applies standardized eligibility criteria to ensure comparable groups.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the best-performing program could guide rehabilitation to improve stability and reduce recurrent ankle sprains.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research suggests both ankle and hip strengthening can aid stability, but direct comparisons among these three approaches are limited, making this trial relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Have a history of at least one major ankle sprain that occurred at least 12 months prior to enrolment in the study, was associated with inflammatory symptoms (pain, swelling, etc), created at least one interrupted day of desired physical activity. * Have had at least two episodes of feeling like an "unstable" ankle in the six months preceding the study. * The Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) with a score of less than 24. * The Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) Sport scale with a score below 80%. * Between 18 and 35 years old * Must be able to understand the study procedures and provide written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Have had a recent injury of less than three months prior to enrolment in the study. * A history of surgery on the musculoskeletal structures of the lower limbs. * Have a history of fracture of one of the lower limbs requiring realignment. * Being diagnosed with a neuromuscular disease. * The appearance of swelling or pain in the lower limb during the experiment.
Where it's running
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University of Liege
Liège, Belgium Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Aude Aguilaniu Aude, PhD
- Email: aude.aguilaniu@uliege.be
- Phone: +32483421291
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.