Improving ankle rehabilitation outcomes with sensorimotor training

Addressing Neuromuscular Deficits for Improved Outcomes in Ankle Rehabilitation

Not applicable Interventional University of Kentucky · NCT03663361

This study is testing a new ankle rehabilitation program to see if it helps people recover better from sprains compared to the usual treatment.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment150 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 44 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Kentucky Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Lexington, Kentucky and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT03663361 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project compares a novel sensorimotor ankle rehabilitation training (SMART) protocol for lateral ankle sprains against a standard of care protocol. The aim is to determine if the SMART protocol leads to better one-year outcomes, lower re-injury rates, and improved health metrics. The study addresses the need for effective rehabilitation strategies following neuromusculoskeletal injuries, particularly in military and civilian populations. By validating this innovative approach, the project seeks to enhance understanding of rehabilitation management and improve patient outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals initiating rehabilitation for a first-time acute grade I, II, or III lateral ankle sprain sustained within 72 hours of enrollment.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of epilepsy, significant head injuries, or certain psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective rehabilitation protocols that reduce re-injury rates and improve long-term health for patients with ankle sprains.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, preliminary data suggests that sensorimotor techniques may improve rehabilitation outcomes, indicating potential success in this novel application.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* initiating rehabilitation for a first time acute grade I, II, or III LAS
* have sustained within 72 hours of study enrollment
* diagnosed by a physician, medic, athletic trainer, physical therapist, or other providing medical coverage in operational environments as having sustained a LAS

Exclusion Criteria:

* personal or familial history of epilepsy or seizures
* history of migraine headaches
* ocular foreign body, increased intracranial pressure, open head injury or significant closed head injury
* cochlear implants
* implanted brain stimulators, aneurysm clips or other metal in the head (except mouth)
* implanted medication pumps, pacemakers or intracardiac lines
* current medication with tricyclic anti-depressants, neuroleptic agents or other drugs that lower seizure threshold
* history of diagnosed major psychiatric disorder
* history of illicit drug use
* current alcohol abuse or currently withdrawing from alcohol abuse
* history of heart disease

Where this trial is running

Lexington, Kentucky and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Ankle Sprainsankle sprain, sensorimotor, rehabilitation, osteoarthritis
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.