Feedback methods to prevent ACL injuries

External Focus of Attention Feedback to Reduce Risk of Non-contact ACL Injury

NA · University of North Carolina, Charlotte · NCT04914689

This study is testing different feedback methods during exercise to see if they can help active people change their movements and prevent ACL injuries.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 35 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of North Carolina, Charlotte (other)
Locations1 site (Charlotte, North Carolina)
Trial IDNCT04914689 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study examines innovative feedback techniques aimed at modifying movement patterns to prevent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, which are prevalent among active individuals. Participants will undergo a movement analysis and be randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups, each receiving different types of feedback during a four-week exercise program focused on improving landing mechanics. The study will also investigate the neuroplastic changes associated with these feedback methods to enhance understanding of their effectiveness. Follow-up assessments will evaluate the retention of biomechanical improvements after the intervention.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are physically active individuals who exercise at least 30 minutes three or more days a week.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of significant knee injuries, fractures, or other musculoskeletal issues may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce the incidence of ACL injuries, leading to better long-term health outcomes for physically active individuals.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been various approaches to ACL injury prevention, this specific focus on external feedback methods is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* exercise 30+ minutes 3+ days/week

Exclusion Criteria:

* Body mass index \>40 kg/m2
* History of lower extremity fracture or surgery to either limb
* History of ACL tear, meniscus, or collateral ligament injury at the knee to either limb
* History of ankle sprains to either limb
* History of musculoskeletal injury sustained in the 6 months prior to enrollment
* History of concussion or neurological disorders that may influence electroencephalography activity
* Visual or hearing impairments that would limit receiving the appropriate feedback
* Inability to comprehend and repeat back directions in English
* Current smoker

Where this trial is running

Charlotte, North Carolina

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.