Can a brace replace the cast for certain ankle fractures?

NCT ID NCT05412693

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Ostfold Hospital Trust Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 24, 2026 · Last updated Jul 24, 2026

Summary

This trial compares a functional brace to a traditional cast for treating a specific type of partially unstable ankle fracture (Weber B/SER4a). Adults aged 18 to 80 with these fractures are randomly assigned to wear either a brace or a cast for six weeks. The goal is to see if the brace is just as effective as the cast at reducing pain and improving foot and ankle function over two years.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: a functional orthosis (brace) compared with a traditional cast
What this could lead to: If the brace works as well as a cast, people with this type of ankle fracture could have a more comfortable and convenient treatment option.
What could go wrong: This is a relatively small trial, and the brace might not provide enough support for proper healing, leading to worse outcomes than a cast.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Ankle Fractures

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANKLE FRACTURES

Contacts and locations

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Locations

Sykehuset Innlandet, Gjøvik

Gjøvik, Norway
Ålesund Hospital

Ålesund, Norway
Østfold Hospital Trust

Sarpsborg, Østfold fylke, 1714, Norway

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