Ankle vs. Hip vs. Combined Strengthening in Chronic Ankle Instability
Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is a common condition that can develop after a lateral ankle sprain. Up to 40% of people who sprain their ankle experience a recurrence within a year, and as many as 30% develop persistent symptoms such as ankle "giving way," weakness, or instability. These symptoms can limit daily activ
| Condition(s) | Chronic Ankle Instability, CAI, Ankle Sprain |
|---|---|
| Status | Recruiting |
| Phase | NA |
| Study type | Interventional |
| Summary | Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is a common condition that can develop after a lateral ankle sprain. Up to 40% of people who sprain their ankle experience a recurrence within a year, and as many as 30% develop persistent symptoms such as ankle "giving way," weakness, or instability. These symptoms can limit daily activities, sports participation, and increase the risk of future sprains. Muscle weakness in both the ankle and hip has been identified as an important factor contributing to CAI. Strengthening these muscles may therefore help improve stability and function. The SHAC study is a randomized controlled trial designed to compare three different strengthening programs in people with chronic ankle instability: (1) an ankle-focused strengthening program, (2) a hip-focused strengthening |
| Who can participate | 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 musculoskele |
| Ages | 18 Years to 35 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Lead sponsor | University of Liege |
| Locations | Liège, Belgium |
| Start date | 2026-03-02 |
| NCT ID | NCT07606534 |
| Official listing | https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT07606534 |