Improving recovery after ACL surgery with exercise and mental support

ACL Reconstruction Rehabilitation with Exercise and Psychological Support

NIH-funded research Healthpartners Institute · NIH-10800102

This study is testing a new way to help people recover from ACL surgery by combining exercise with emotional support, so patients can feel better both physically and mentally during their healing process.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionHealthpartners Institute NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Bloomington, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10800102 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new rehabilitation approach called Rehabilitation with Exercise and Psychological Support (REPS) for patients recovering from anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. It combines physical exercise with psychological support to help patients manage their emotions and fears related to re-injury. The study aims to train both clinicians and patients on effective mental skills to improve recovery outcomes. By addressing both physical and psychological aspects of rehabilitation, the research seeks to enhance the overall recovery experience for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have undergone ACL reconstruction and are experiencing fear or anxiety about returning to sports.

Not a fit: Patients who have not had ACL surgery or those who are not engaged in sports may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved recovery rates and a higher return-to-sport success for patients after ACL reconstruction.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that integrating psychological support into physical rehabilitation can improve patient outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Bloomington, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions ACL injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.