Comparing weightbearing methods after knee ligament surgery
Official title: Non-Weight Bearing Versus Partial Controlled Weightbearing During the First Six Weeks of Rehabilitation After Multiple Knee Ligament Reconstruction: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Run by Twin Cities Orthopedics · NCT05073276 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether resting the knee completely or allowing some weight on it after ligament surgery helps patients recover just as well.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 14 Years to 59 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Twin Cities Orthopedics Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Edina, Minnesota) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 1, 2020 |
| Main results expected | July 2027 |
| Study ends | January 2028 |
| Registry record updated | October 6, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05073276 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals aged 14 to 60 who are undergoing reconstruction of the posterior cruciate ligament, medial collateral ligament, or multiple knee ligaments.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients over 60 years old, those with previous knee surgeries, or concurrent injuries may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the safety and effectiveness of two rehabilitation protocols for patients undergoing knee ligament reconstruction. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a non-weightbearing or partial weightbearing regimen for the first six weeks post-surgery. The study aims to assess clinical equivalence in knee stability and other recovery metrics between the two groups. The use of specialized braces will help protect the knee during the recovery process.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved rehabilitation protocols that enhance recovery outcomes for knee ligament surgery patients.
How similar studies have gone: While the standard of care is currently non-weightbearing, this approach of comparing weightbearing methods is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in similar studies.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * ≥ 14 years old, \<60 * Reconstruction of PCL alone * Reconstruction of MCL alone * Reconstruction of combined multiligament injuries (PCL+ (FCL, PLC, ACL, MCL)) * Reconstruction of multiligament injuries (ACL+MCL) * Males or females * Is willing and able to comply with the clinical trial plan and able to understand and sign the Patient Informed Consent Form. Exclusion Criteria: * \< 14 years old * \>60 years old * Pregnant * Revision PCL reconstructions * Previous or concurrent vascular injury (vascular bypass procedure) * Associated fractures requiring concurrent surgery * Concurrent meniscal root or radial repair surgery
Where it's running
-
Twin Cities Orthopedics
Edina, Minnesota, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Robert F LaPrade, MD, PhD — Twin Cities Orthopedics
- Study coordinator: Becky McGaver
- Email: research@tcomn.com
- Phone: 952-456-7136
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.