Can early weight bearing improve diabetic ankle fracture recovery?
NCT ID NCT03966027
First seen Aug 03, 2026 · Last updated Aug 04, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This trial compares two recovery plans after surgery for ankle fractures in people with diabetes: starting to put weight on the ankle right away using a special offloading brace, versus the traditional delayed weight-bearing approach. The goal is to see if immediate weight bearing can maintain joint motion, avoid extra complications, and lead to better patient satisfaction and outcomes. Participants are adults with diabetes and reduced foot sensation who have had surgery for an isolated ankle fracture.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Postoperative rehabilitation protocol comparing immediate weight bearing with a hindfoot offloading brace versus standard delayed weight bearing
- What this could lead to
- If immediate weight bearing proves safe and effective, it could speed up recovery and reduce complications for diabetics after ankle fracture surgery.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small early-stage trial, and immediate weight bearing may increase the risk of implant failure or wound complications in diabetic patients with reduced sensation.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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University of Missouri Health System
RECRUITINGColumbia, Missouri, 65212, United States
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