Trial results for a study investigating talocrural joint manipulation in patients with Stroke were posted on ClinicalTrials.gov on 2025-07-23. The study found that talocrural manipulation led to a reduction in the median Overall Stability Index from 17.5 to 9 and an increase in median ankle dorsiflexion from 13 to 22.5 degrees.
Background
Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability, often resulting in impaired motor function, balance deficits, and reduced range of motion, particularly in the lower extremities. These impairments can significantly impact a patient's ability to perform daily activities and increase the risk of falls. Rehabilitation strategies typically focus on regaining strength, coordination, and balance through various physical therapies. Interventions that can improve ankle mobility and stability are crucial, as the ankle joint plays a vital role in maintaining upright posture and facilitating gait. Addressing these specific physical limitations can enhance overall functional recovery and quality of life for stroke survivors.
Trial design
This completed study, identified as Phase NA, enrolled 64 participants with Stroke. The primary aim was to investigate the effect of talocrural joint manipulation on the static balance of patients with stroke. A secondary aim was to investigate the effect of talocrural joint manipulation on the dorsiflexion range of motion. Participants were divided into two groups: a "Placebo Only" group and a "Talocrural Manipulation Only" group, allowing for a comparison of the intervention's effects.
Key results
The trial evaluated several stability indices and ankle dorsiflexion measurements:
- For Overall Stability Index Measurement, the median value was 17.5 units on a scale in the Placebo Only group, compared to 9 units on a scale in the Talocrural Manipulation Only group.
- For Mediolateral Stability Index Measurement, the mean value was 6.96 units on a scale with a standard deviation of 2.59 in the Placebo Only group. In the Talocrural Manipulation Only group, the mean was 4.87 units on a scale with a standard deviation of 2.76.
- For Anteroposterior Stability Index Measurement, the median value was 10 units on a scale in the Placebo Only group, compared to 5.5 units on a scale in the Talocrural Manipulation Only group.
- For Ankle Dorsiflexion Range of Motion Measurement With Knee in Extended and Flexed Positions (first measurement), the median value was 13 average of ankle dorsi flexion degree in the Placebo Only group, compared to 22.5 average of ankle dorsi flexion degree in the Talocrural Manipulation Only group.
- For Ankle Dorsiflexion Range of Motion Measurement With Knee in Extended and Flexed Positions (second measurement), the median value was 10 average of ankle dorsi flexion degree in the Placebo Only group, compared to 18.5 average of ankle dorsi flexion degree in the Talocrural Manipulation Only group.
What this means
The results suggest that talocrural joint manipulation may offer a beneficial intervention for improving static balance and ankle dorsiflexion in patients recovering from stroke. The observed reductions in the Overall, Mediolateral, and Anteroposterior Stability Indices indicate an improvement in balance control. Furthermore, the notable increase in ankle dorsiflexion range of motion could contribute to better gait mechanics and functional mobility. These findings imply that incorporating talocrural joint manipulation into rehabilitation programs for stroke patients could potentially enhance their recovery outcomes related to balance and lower limb function, thereby improving their ability to perform daily activities and reducing fall risk.
Source
The information regarding these trial results was obtained from ClinicalTrials.gov, a public database of clinical studies. The results for the study NCT06523010, titled "Talocrural Joint Manipulation in Stroke", were posted on 2025-07-23 on clinicaltrials.gov.