Investigating how limited ankle movement affects squats in people with knee pain

Limited Ankle Dorsiflexion and Effect on Single Limb Squats in Individuals With Patellofemoral Pain: Interventions and Outcomes in a Randomized Clinical Trial

NA · Loma Linda University · NCT05285007

This study is testing if improving ankle movement can help people with knee pain do single limb squats better.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 59 Years
SexFemale
SponsorLoma Linda University (other)
Locations1 site (Loma Linda, California)
Trial IDNCT05285007 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research examines the connection between limited ankle dorsiflexion and its impact on single limb squats in individuals suffering from patellofemoral pain. Participants will be randomly assigned to either an experimental group, which will receive interventions aimed at increasing dorsiflexion, or a minimal intervention group that will engage in light activities. The study will involve measuring dorsiflexion range of motion, hip abductor strength, and performance on the Lateral Step Down test using motion capture technology. The goal is to understand how improving ankle mobility may influence knee pain and function during specific movements.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are females aged 18-59 with a history of active patellofemoral pain for at least 6 months and limited ankle dorsiflexion.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of musculoskeletal surgery, current knee effusion, or significant resting pain may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment strategies for individuals with patellofemoral pain by enhancing their functional movement capabilities.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach may be novel, similar studies have indicated that addressing ankle mobility can positively affect knee function and pain.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* History of active Patellofemoral Pain for at least 6 months
* No clinic based therapeutic interventions for a 6-month period prior to testing
* Females aged 18-59 years' old
* Limited ankle dorsiflexion as noted by \<45degs using the weight bearing lunge test

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of musculoskeletal surgery or fractures on the tested leg or lumbar spine that could affect their biomechanics during the study
* History of soft tissue or skeletal abnormalities in the tested limb
* Current knee effusion
* Resting pain greater than 5/10

Where this trial is running

Loma Linda, California

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Patellofemoral Pain

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.