Neurocognitive Exercises for Ankle Instability

Launched by ISTANBUL UNIVERSITY - CERRAHPASA · Aug 21, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the effects of special exercises designed to improve brain and body coordination (called neurocognitive exercises) compared to traditional rehabilitation for people with unstable ankles. Ankle instability often happens after a sprain and can lead to repeated injuries and ongoing pain. The trial aims to see if these neurocognitive exercises can reduce the risk of re-injury, improve balance, and enhance body awareness in individuals who have experienced ankle instability.

To participate, individuals must be between the ages of 65 and 88 and have a history of ankle instability confirmed by medical tests, with a sprain that happened at least six months ago. They should also feel a recurring sensation of their ankle giving way. However, those with certain conditions, like previous surgeries on their lower legs, ankle arthritis, or other specific injuries, would not be eligible. Participants can expect to engage in a rehabilitation program that focuses on both physical exercises and cognitive tasks aimed at improving their overall control and stability. This study is not yet recruiting, but it holds promise for better treatments for ankle instability in the future.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • The documented unilateral ankle instability confirmed through clinical examinations (drawer test, talar tilt test) and MRI in cases requiring differential diagnosis.
• • A history of an initial ankle sprain occurring at least 6 months ago.
• • The presence of a recurrent sense of giving way that started at least 6 months ago and has been intermittently persistent.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Presence of a history of previous surgery in the lower extremity.
• • Identification of organic and non-organic lesions such as cartilage injuries, periarticular tendon tears, and impingement syndromes.
• • The existence of a fracture accompanying instability in the foot-ankle.
• • Presence of congenital deformities in the foot-ankle.
• • Diagnosis of talus osteochondral lesion.
• • Diagnosis of ankle arthritis.
• • Presence of medial ligament lesion.
• • Existence of peripheral neuropathy.
• • Presence of additional rheumatological diseases.
• • Regular moderate-level exercise for at least 3 days a week in the last 6 months.