Criteria-based vs time-based rehabilitation for football players
Official title: Effects Of Criteria Versus Time-Based Rehabilitation On Return To Play In Football Players
Run by Riphah International University · NCT07815340 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This trial tests whether a criteria-based rehab plan helps football players 18–35 recover faster and safely return to play after hamstring injuries, ACL issues, or ankle sprains, compared with a fixed six-week plan.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 35 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 52 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Riphah International University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Islamabad, Federal and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 25, 2026 |
| Main results expected | December 25, 2026 |
| Study ends | January 5, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | September 29, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07815340 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Active football players aged 18–35 with ACL-related injury, hamstring strain, or ankle sprain, in rehabilitation phase 1–3, at local clubs or academies in Islamabad.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals not experiencing functional improvement or with contraindicating symptoms may not benefit from the milestone-based progression.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
In this randomized study, football players with recent hamstring strains, ACL-related injuries, or ankle sprains are assigned to either criteria-based rehabilitation (CBR) or time-based rehabilitation (TBR) for six weeks under licensed physiotherapist supervision. Both groups follow a phase-based program, but CBR progresses based on objective functional and psychological milestones, while TBR advances on fixed time intervals with return-to-play clearance at six weeks. Progression can be paused or regressed if pain or swelling recurs. The trial aims to determine if CBR leads to better functional outcomes and safer return-to-play decisions compared with a traditional time-based approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the approach could allow athletes to return to play sooner or more safely by tailoring progression to their actual recovery milestones.
How similar studies have gone: Previous rehabilitation studies suggest milestone-based progression can be feasible, but results vary by injury and setting; this trial tests applicability in football populations in the region.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Injury Type: ACL reconstruction, hamstring strain, and ankle sprain. * Rehabilitation Phase: Phase 3 for ACL injuries, Phase 1\&2 for hamstring strains and ankle sprains. * Football Activity: Active at club or regional football level Exclusion Criteria: * History of Major surgery in affected limb * Chronic neurological or musculoskeletal disorder * Non-football athletes
Where it's running
-
Mescon Islamabad football academy
Islamabad, Federal, Pakistan Recruiting -
Mescon Islamabad Football Academy (MIFA)
Islamabad, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ramsha Ali — Riphah International University
- Study coordinator: Saadia Batool
- Email: saadia.batool@riphah.edu.pk
- Phone: 03165131870
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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.