Ankle Isometric Strength and Proprioception in Young Ice Hockey Players (ANKLE-ICE)

Emine Merve Ersever

Status: Not yet enrolling

Conditions: Ankle Proprioception; Muscle Strength; Ankle Joint Function; Youth Sports Injury Prevention

Study type: Observational

Funder types: Other

Identifiers

NCT07336524

E-18/231

Details and patient eligibility

About

This observational cross-sectional study aims to profile ankle isometric strength and proprioception in 9-10-year-old junior ice hockey players and to compare these outcomes and limb symmetry indices with age-matched non-athlete children. Ankle isometric muscle strength is assessed using a handheld dynamometer, and ankle proprioception is evaluated using a digital inclinometer. Measurements are performed bilaterally for dominant and non-dominant limbs. Group comparisons and limb symmetry analyses are conducted to identify potential neuromuscular differences related to sports participation.

Enrollment: 70 estimated patients

Sex: All

Ages: 9 to 10 years old

Volunteers: Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion criteria

• Children aged 9 to 10 years.
• For the ice hockey group: regular participation in organized junior ice hockey training.
• For the control group: no participation in organized sports or structured athletic training.
• Ability to understand and follow test instructions.
• Written informed consent obtained from parents or legal guardians

Exclusion criteria

• History of lower extremity injury within the past 6 months.
• Previous ankle or lower limb surgery.
• Presence of neurological, musculoskeletal, or balance disorders that could affect ankle strength or proprioception.
• Current pain or injury affecting lower extremity function.
• Any medical condition that would limit safe participation in the assessments.

Trial design

70 participants in 2 patient groups

Junior Ice Hockey Players

Description:

Children aged 9-10 years who participate in organized junior ice hockey training on a regular basis

Non-Athlete Children

Description:

Age-matched children aged 9-10 years who do not participate in organized sports or structured athletic training.