Electrical stimulation to restore quadriceps after ACL tear
Mechanistic Assessment of NMES to Rescue Localized Neuromuscular Disruption after ACL Injury
This will use neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) to help people with ACL tears or reconstruction avoid quadriceps weakness and muscle loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11180966 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
After an ACL tear or reconstruction, the team will study early changes in the thigh muscle and its nerve connections that lead to long-term weakness and shrinkage. They will collect physiological measurements and small muscle samples to identify a molecular signature of local denervation and neuromuscular remodeling. The researchers will apply targeted NMES and track whether those molecular and functional changes improve compared with usual care. The project combines lab analyses with in-person muscle testing and therapy sessions to link biological changes to recovery.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with a recent ACL rupture or who are in the early period after ACL reconstruction would be the best candidates.
Not a fit: People with long-standing chronic ACL injuries, unrelated knee conditions, or implanted electrical devices (like pacemakers) may not benefit or be eligible.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could reduce lasting quadriceps weakness and speed recovery of strength and function after ACL injury or reconstruction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous NMES trials have had mixed results, but pilot data and mechanistic lab evidence in this project suggest NMES may target the underlying molecular changes and is promising though not yet proven.
Where this research is happening
Lexington, United States
- University of Kentucky — Lexington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fry, Christopher — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Fry, Christopher
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.