Improving quadriceps muscle function after ACL surgery using brain stimulation
Official title: Determining the effects of non-invasive brain stimulation to improve quadriceps muscle function after ACL reconstruction.
Funded at Arcadia University · NIH-11124552 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a gentle brain stimulation technique can help improve the strength and function of your thigh muscles as you recover from ACL surgery, making your rehabilitation process easier and more effective.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Arcadia University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Glenside, United States) |
| Project start | June 6, 2025 |
| Project end | May 5, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $520,154 |
| NIH project number | 1R15HD118518-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11124552 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have recently undergone ACL reconstruction and are experiencing quadriceps muscle impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not had ACL surgery or those with pre-existing neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how non-invasive brain stimulation can enhance quadriceps muscle function in patients recovering from anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The study aims to address persistent muscle impairments that can lead to long-term complications like post-traumatic knee osteoarthritis. By applying a technique called anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), the researchers hope to improve neural drive to the quadriceps, which may enhance rehabilitation outcomes. The project will involve monitoring muscle performance and movement patterns in participants to assess the effectiveness of this innovative approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved rehabilitation strategies that significantly enhance recovery and reduce the risk of long-term knee issues for ACL reconstruction patients.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of non-invasive brain stimulation in rehabilitation is a relatively novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promising results in enhancing muscle function in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
-
Arcadia University
Glenside, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zarzycki, Ryan D — Arcadia University
- Study coordinator: Zarzycki, Ryan D
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Graft Remodeling and Joint Degeneration after ACL Reconstruction in the Growing Knee Joint
This grant focuses on how ACL reconstruction in growing kids and teens affects knee grafts and long-term joint health.
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Using clinic videos to spot risk of a second ACL injury after reconstruction
This project uses easy-to-take clinic videos and wearable sensors to find movement patterns that may predict a second ACL injury in people who've had ACL reconstruction.
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Options for a second (revision) ACL surgery
This work looks at how different surgical approaches and patient factors relate to long-term outcomes for people having a second ACL reconstruction.
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How walking and physical activity affect knee health after ACL surgery
This study is looking at how walking and activity levels affect knee health in young adults who have had ACL surgery, aiming to find ways to prevent long-term pain and joint issues during their first year of recovery.
-
Predicting second injuries after ACL surgery using video technology
This study is looking at how to help people who have had ACL surgery avoid getting hurt again by tracking their movements and activities for 18 months, so we can learn more about what might lead to a second injury.
-
Improving walking patterns after ACL surgery
This study is testing a new walking program to help people recover better after ACL surgery by teaching them a special way to walk that could make their knees feel better and prevent future problems.
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.