A sock that steadies you? researchers put novel design to the test
NCT ID NCT06871085
First seen Aug 28, 2026 · Last updated Aug 28, 2026
Summary
Researchers at the University of Central Florida are testing whether a specially designed sock can improve ankle stability and overall balance. Healthy adults aged 18 and older will perform a series of balance and strength tests, such as standing on one leg and hopping, while wearing the sock. The study also measures whether participants feel more confident doing these exercises with the sock on. The goal is to see if this simple wearable device could offer a practical way to support ankle function.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- A specially designed stability sock worn during balance and strength tests
- What this could lead to
- If the sock improves balance and ankle stability, it could become a simple, non-invasive aid for athletes or older adults looking to prevent falls.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage study with only 24 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The sock might not provide any measurable benefit over a regular sock.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
-
Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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24 people
The number who actually took part.
- Started
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Mar 2025
- Finished
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Aug 2026
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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18 years and older
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Accepted
You do not need to have the condition being studied to take part.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Minimum of 18 years old or older * Able to perform the following actions with no pain or discomfort: sit-to-stand, jump, one leg stand * Must read, write, and speak sufficient English in order to complete subjective questionnaire Exclusion Criteria: * Had a previous foot or leg injury * Had a foot condition at the time of their participation in the study * Had feelings of instability at the ankle * Had an ankle injury within the past 12 months * Had surgery on either lower extremity in the past * Had any torn ligaments or cartilage at the hip, knee, or ankle * Experienced radicular symptoms down either lower extremity * Had any allergies to the sock material used in the study 1. 80% nylon 2. 14% polyester 3. 6% elastane * Is currently pregnant
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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 Central Florida
Orlando, Florida, 32816, United States
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