Document Type

Abstract

Publication Date

2-11-2026

Comments

Presented at the 2026 Scholarly Inquiry (SI) Research Project Symposium.

Abstract

Introduction: Ankle sprains occur when ligaments of the ankle are stretched or torn due to excessive force, such as twisting or rolling. Ankle sprains are the most common injury in athletes, with re-injury rates as high as 47%. We aim to design a device with integrated resistance to standardize re-strengthening care in patients with sprained ankles.

Methods: A crucial aspect of ankle rehabilitation involves regaining strength and proprioception through resistance band exercises. Currently, resistance band exercises are difficult to complete alone, which is a necessary part of at-home exercises. Our wearable ankle-strengthening device standardizes the exercises, allowing for easier use and more effective strengthening. The device will be used in our future prospective cohort of patients recovering from ankle sprains to measure patient adherence, ankle strength recovery, and rates of re-injury.

Results: Results are limited as our device is still under development. Anticipated results include increased patient adherence to their regimen due to ease of use, improved recovery of strength and proprioception as a result of standard and quantified forces, and reduced re-injury rates.

Discussion/Conclusions: These results are anticipated because our device is intuitive to use (in contrast to current resistance band exercises, which require instruction) and standardizes recovery. Standardizing ankle sprain recovery can impact millions of patients annually, thereby reducing recovery time and associated healthcare costs. This project highlights how a new device can be designed by researching a shortcoming in care, with future prospective cohort research confirming the anticipated results of the ankle strengthening device.

Language

English

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