Effect of PEMF on recovery after ACL reconstruction with hamstring autograft
Effect of Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields on Promoting Hamstring Muscle Strength After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With Hamstring Autograft: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomised Clinical Trial
NA · Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT06464705
This study is testing if pulsed electromagnetic field therapy can help people recover faster and regain strength in their hamstring after ACL surgery using their own hamstring tendon.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Chinese University of Hong Kong (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Shatin) |
| Trial ID | NCT06464705 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the impact of pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy on patients recovering from anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using hamstring tendon autograft. The focus is on enhancing muscle cell activity and accelerating recovery of hamstring strength, which is often compromised after surgery. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either PEMF treatment or a placebo, with assessments of hamstring strength conducted at 4 months post-surgery. The goal is to determine if PEMF can improve outcomes related to muscle strength and overall knee function.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who are undergoing their first ACL reconstruction with hamstring autograft and have a hamstring strength deficit.
Not a fit: Patients with prior knee injuries, significant comorbidities, or those who cannot provide informed consent may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly enhance recovery and strength in patients after ACL reconstruction, potentially reducing the risk of future injuries.
How similar studies have performed: While PEMF therapy has shown promise in enhancing muscle recovery in other contexts, this specific application in ACL reconstruction is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Male and female with age ≥ 18 years at the time of surgery 2. First ACLR with HT autograft 3. Both knees without a history of injury/prior surgery 4. LSI for hamstring strength \<85% of contralateral leg at 4-month isokinetic assessment (70) 5. Voluntarily agreed to participate and signed the informed consent form Exclusion Criteria: 1. Any concomitant bone fracture, major meniscus injury or full-thickness chondral injuries requiring altered rehabilitation program post-op 2. Preoperative radiographic signs of arthritis 3. Other associated injuries (fractures and other ligament involvement such as neurovascular bundles injury) 4. Patient with a pacemaker, an implantable defibrillator, neurosurgical clips, a neurostimulator, cochlear implant, a stent, an insulin pump 5. Pregnant or breastfeeding 6. Inability to give informed consent
Where this trial is running
Shatin
- Prince of Wales Hospital — Shatin, Hong Kong (RECRUITING)
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- 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 Reconstruction, Hamstring Muscle