Effect of PEMF on recovery after ACL reconstruction with hamstring autograft
Official title: 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
Run by Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT06464705 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Chinese University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Shatin) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 13, 2024 |
| Main results expected | March 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | March 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | August 12, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06464705 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a 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.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with prior knee injuries, significant comorbidities, or those who cannot provide informed consent 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 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.
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 gone: 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.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
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Prince of Wales Hospital
Shatin, Hong Kong Recruiting
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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.