Evaluating walking patterns after ACL reconstruction
Official title: Assessment of Gait Adaptation Due to an Asymmetric Walking Protocol
Run by University of Connecticut · NCT05968729 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if different walking patterns can help people recover better after ACL surgery by looking at how their knees are loaded while walking.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 30 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Connecticut Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Storrs, Connecticut) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 1, 2022 |
| Main results expected | July 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | July 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | August 27, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT05968729 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18-30 who have recently undergone ACLR surgery and exhibit between-limb gait differences.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with recent lower limb injuries, inflammation, or those unable to walk for extended periods 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 aims to assess how asymmetric walking protocols can help restore healthy limb loading in individuals who have undergone anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) surgery. Participants will engage in two sessions of walking with controlled speed differences between limbs to evaluate the effectiveness of these protocols. The study will utilize computational modeling and machine learning to analyze knee loading and determine the optimal walking conditions for recovery. Each participant will complete both walking sessions on separate days, with a minimum of three weeks between sessions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved rehabilitation protocols that enhance recovery and restore normal gait in patients post-ACLR.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using asymmetric walking protocols is novel, similar studies have shown promise in gait rehabilitation post-surgery.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Able to read and speak English 2. Age 18 - 30 years old 3. Undergone ACLR surgery at the UConn Musculoskeletal Institute 4. Must not have any concomitant surgeries or injuries 5. Must be cleared to return-to-sport by a physician after they have completed rehabilitation 6. Must be within 1 month of having been cleared for return-to-sport 7. Must present with between-limb gait differences in load rate greater than 10% Exclusion Criteria: 1. Participants who have any recent inflammation, bleeding disorders, active bleeding, or infection within the lower limbs. 2. History of injuries to their patellar tendon 3. Cannot walk for extended periods of time 4. Cannot have had any back and/or lower extremity injury that affects their ability to move. 5. Cannot have difficulty or pain with walking, raising your arms, jogging, or jumping 6. Must not be allergic to tape.
Where it's running
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University of Connecticut
Storrs, Connecticut, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Kristin Morgan, PhD — University of Connecticut
- Study coordinator: Kristin Morgan, PhD
- Email: kristin.2.morgan@uconn.edu
- Phone: 860-486-8118
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Fractal versus steady visual walking cues after ACL reconstruction
This tests whether fractal (variable) visual walking cues or steady metronome-like cues help athletes who had ACL reconstruction walk with steadier, safer patterns.
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Brain-computer visualization training to improve muscle activation after orthopedic surgery
This tests whether adding EEG-based neurofeedback visualization to usual physical therapy helps adults recovering from ACL, hip, or knee surgery activate their muscles better and speed recovery.
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Eccentric training for rehabilitation after ACL surgery
This study is testing if a special type of exercise called eccentric training helps people recover better after ACL surgery compared to regular rehab exercises.
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.