Training on mobility devices before foot and ankle surgery
Effect of Preoperative Mobility Device Training on Postoperative Fall Incidence
This study tests if training patients on how to use mobility devices before foot and ankle surgery can help prevent falls during their recovery.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 250 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Alabama at Birmingham Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Birmingham, Alabama) |
| Trial ID | NCT03857945 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of preoperative training on mobility devices in reducing the incidence of falls after elective foot and ankle surgery. Patients will be randomly assigned to receive either training on the use of crutches, walkers, or knee scooters before surgery or no training at all. The study will enroll 250 participants who will be monitored during their postoperative recovery period, focusing on fall occurrences. The goal is to determine if preoperative training can enhance patient safety during the critical recovery phase.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older undergoing elective unilateral foot or ankle surgery that requires a postoperative non-weight-bearing period.
Not a fit: Patients who are wheelchair-bound, have cognitive or mobility impairments, or are undergoing bilateral surgeries may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the risk of falls in patients recovering from foot and ankle surgery.
How similar studies have performed: While some studies have shown that physical therapy and training can reduce fall risks, the specific focus on preoperative training for mobility devices is less explored, making this approach somewhat novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * age 18 and older * undergoing elective unilateral foot/ankle surgery * requiring a period of post-operative non-weight-bearing or partial-weight-bearing period as advised by the operating surgeon. Exclusion Criteria: * less than 18 years of age * wheelchair-bound patients * patients with history of previous use of post-operative mobility device(s) * patients with ankle fractures, patients with previously diagnosed condition(s) with cognitive, balance, mobility impairment * patients undergoing bilateral surgery * patients requiring follow ups longer than 6 weeks
Where this trial is running
Birmingham, Alabama
- UAB Hospital Highlands — Birmingham, Alabama, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ashish B Shah, MD — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Ashish B Shah, MD
- Email: ashishshah@uabmc.edu
- Phone: (205) 930-6722
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.