Active — Not RecruitingNot Applicable

Effects of Dry Needling the Calf Muscles on Biomechanics and Muscle Function in Individuals With Restricted Dorsiflexion

United States40 participantsStarted 2026-02-23

Plain-language summary

The goal of this observational study is to learn about the acute effects of dry needling the soleus muscle in individuals with limited ankle mobility

Who can participate

Age range18 Years – 40 Years

SexALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * Individuals must present with decreased dorsiflexion measurement during screening of 35° or less unilaterally or bilaterally based on the weight bearing lunge test Exclusion Criteria: * Current and/or historical lower extremity injury or surgery within the last six months * Musculoskeletal or neurological disorders that could impact balance or normal lower extremity function * Extreme phobia of needles * On blood thinners * Chance of pregnancy * Known problems with immune system, * Presence of diseases or infections that can be spread through bodily fluids

What they're measuring

Peak ankle dorsiflexion

Timeframe: Pre-post testing on the same day. Post testing will occur within 60 minutes of the intervention.

Peak ground reaction force

Timeframe: Pre-post testing on the same day. Post testing will occur within 60 minutes of the intervention.

Peak muscle activation

Timeframe: Pre-post testing on the same day. Post testing will occur within 60 minutes of the intervention.

Tissue stiffness

Timeframe: Pre-post testing on the same day. Post testing will occur within 60 minutes of the intervention.

Trial details

NCT IDNCT07474948

SponsorUniversity of Dayton

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2027-06-01

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