A Home Device for Improved Ankle Dorsiflexion Rehabilitation

Abstract

Abstract. Reduced ankle dorsiflexion may result in increased fall risk, reduced walking speed, increased risk of knee pain and injury, and compensatory gait, making it a common target for physical therapy. The primary intervention includes manual joint mobilization with movement (MWM) provided by a therapist. However, this method is not easily replicated by self-stretching techniques and requires frequent visits to a clinic. This pre–post pilot study evaluated the Ankle Flex device as a home treatment method. Six participants (two male, aged 45±8 yr, weight 73±14 kg, and height 1.77±0.07 m) performed an experimental study with the Ankle Flex in their homes and measured clinical, kinematic, and strength outcomes. Clinical outcomes saw significant improvements with increases in ankle dorsiflexion up to 7.7±4.8 deg (p = 0.031) and knee-to-wall of 1.9±0.9 cm (p = 0.031). Kinematic outcomes saw increased ankle range of motion of 1.51±0.32 deg (p < 0.001) while straight walking and 1.83±0.52 deg (p < 0.001) during body weight squats, increased squat depth of 2.28±0.01 cm (p < 0.001), and increased toe clearance of 0.30±0.08 cm (p < 0.001). Ankle Flex may provide outcomes similar to or exceeding those from the standards of care, and further investigation on a larger population is warranted. Use of the device could help individuals regain functional motion in their ankle; in addition, Ankle Flex can be used in the patient's home.