The Ankle Evidence Hub is an independent platform that provides continuously updated summaries of the best available research on foot and ankle injuries – these are known as living reviews. Their purpose is to support clinical decision-making by ensuring that evidence synthesis remains current, transparent, and methodologically rigorous.
The systematic accumulation and synthesis of research evidence represents one of the most important methodological advances in modern medicine…
“It is surely a great criticism of our profession that we have not organised a critical summary… of all relevant randomized controlled trials.” — Archie Cochrane
Why do we need ‘living’ reviews?
Clinical decisions depend on access to accurate and up-to-date summaries of the available evidence. However, traditional systematic reviews represent fixed snapshots in time and may not incorporate new research for extended periods following publication. As a result, clinically relevant findings may remain inaccessible to clinicians, researchers, and policy makers, limiting the completeness and reliability of evidence-informed decision-making.
The Ankle Evidence Hub addresses this limitation by maintaining Living Reviews that are actively monitored and updated as new eligible studies emerge. This approach ensures that evidence summaries reflect the most current and comprehensive body of available research.
This model represents a transition from static evidence summaries toward a continuously updated, transparent, and responsive evidence ecosystem.
How to Use This Site
Each Living Review addresses a clearly defined clinical question relevant to the management of foot and ankle injuries. Reviews are conducted using predefined methodological standards, and conclusions are revised only when new evidence justifies a change.
To explore current topics, visit the Living Reviews section.
To find out more about the purpose, principles, and methodology underpinning this platform, visit the About page and the Methods page.
If you are aware of a study that may be eligible for inclusion in one of our Living Reviews, please visit the Contribute page.