RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07384754

Foot Strengthening to Improve Balance and Gait in Older Adults

Evaluation of a Novel Foot Strengthening Device for Improving Fall Risk, Balance, and Gait With Age


Sponsor

Indiana University

Enrollment

160 participants

Start Date

Jan 1, 2026

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Summary

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn whether different foot-strengthening strategies can improve foot strength, balance, walking ability, and fall-related outcomes in middle-aged and older adults (ages 45-85 years). The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does foot strength change from baseline after an 8-week foot-strengthening intervention? * Do balance, gait, and physical function improve following different foot-strengthening approaches? Researchers will compare minimalist footwear use, a foot exercise program, a foot-strengthening device (ToePro), and no intervention to see if these interventions lead to greater improvements in foot strength, balance, gait, and fall-related outcomes than no intervention. Participants will: * Complete baseline and post-intervention laboratory testing of foot strength, balance, physical function, and walking gait * Perform foot strengthening exercises or wear minimalist footwear (if applicable) five days/week for eight weeks * Complete daily logs to record intervention compliance


Eligibility

Min Age: 45 YearsMax Age: 85 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This clinical trial is studying a behavioral approach called Foot strengthening exercises, a medical device called Minimalist footwear, and others for people with control condition, foot strengthening device (toepro), and other related conditions. The study is currently recruiting participants at 1 location.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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Interventions

DEVICEMinimalist footwear

Habitual use of low-cushion, low-structure footwear designed to increase intrinsic foot muscle engagement during daily activities.

BEHAVIORALFoot strengthening exercises

Home-based exercises including toe flexion, toe press, and arch-control movements performed several times per week.

DEVICEToePro foot strengthening device

A dense foam exercise platform designed to strengthen intrinsic foot muscles through loaded toe press exercises in lengthened muscle positions.


Locations(1)

School of Public Health-Bloomington

Bloomington, Indiana, United States

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NCT07384754


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