Cognitive dual-task training for athletes recovering from ACL surgery

The Effects of Cognitive Dual-Tasking in Later Stages of Rehabilitation After ACL Reconstruction

Not applicable Interventional University Ghent · NCT06206200

This study tests if adding brain exercises to physical therapy helps athletes recover better after ACL surgery and reduces the chance of getting hurt again.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 40 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Ghent Academic / other
Locations1 site (Roeselare, West-Vlaanderen)
Trial IDNCT06206200 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of cognitive dual-task training on athletes recovering from anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. It aims to enhance rehabilitation by integrating cognitive tasks with motor skills, addressing the cognitive-motor interference that can lead to reinjury. Participants will be divided into two groups: one receiving cognitive dual-task training and the other receiving standard physiotherapy. The goal is to improve decision-making and movement patterns before athletes return to high-demand sports.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are athletes aged 18-40 who have suffered an ACL rupture and are undergoing surgical reconstruction.

Not a fit: Patients who have had revision ACL reconstruction or other severe lower limb injuries may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the risk of reinjury for athletes returning to sports after ACL reconstruction.

How similar studies have performed: While the integration of cognitive tasks in rehabilitation is a growing area of interest, this specific approach to ACL rehabilitation is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18-40 years old.
* Having suffered an ACL rupture.
* Undergoing a surgical ACL reconstruction in the AZ Delta hospital in Roeselare (Campus Brugsesteenweg).

Exclusion Criteria:

* Revision ACL reconstruction.
* Other severe injuries to the lower limbs within the past year.
* Muscle or neurological disorders affecting lower limb functioning.
* Fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome.

Where this trial is running

Roeselare, West-Vlaanderen

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Anterior Cruciate Ligament ReconstructionAthrogenic Muscle ResponsesACL Injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.