Could a needle beat a brace for ankle sprains?

NCT ID NCT07161427

Not yet recruiting Symptom relief Sponsor: Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This study tests a new type of acupuncture called Fu's subcutaneous needling against the usual treatment of wearing a brace and doing exercises for people with recent ankle sprains. The goal is to see which approach better reduces pain, improves ankle function, and prevents the sprain from turning into a long-term problem. Sixty-two participants will receive either the needling or the brace-plus-exercise plan for two weeks, and be followed for six months.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Fu's subcutaneous needling (a type of acupuncture)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a new, non-surgical option for faster ankle sprain recovery and help prevent long-term ankle problems.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage trial with only 62 people, so results may not apply to everyone. The treatment is compared to standard care, and it's unclear if it will prove more effective.

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 injury

As listed by the trial registrant

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

CHRONIC ANKLE INSTABILITY LATERAL ANKLE SPRAIN

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.