Functional brain signal changes after ACL reconstruction with targeted neuromotor training
Study of Functional Magnetic Resonance Signal Variations in Patients Undergoing Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With the Application of a Dedicated Neuromotor Training
This project will test whether targeted neuromotor training after ACL reconstruction changes brain activity patterns in active adults aged 18–30.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 12 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 30 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Bologna, Bologna) |
| Trial ID | NCT07097077 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
Adults who have undergone anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction will complete a dedicated neuromotor training program and undergo functional MRI scanning. The study measures volumetric activation in cortical motor and sensorimotor regions during lower-limb tasks before and after the training intervention. Eligible participants are physically active young adults (Tegner >6) without neurological disorders or prior lower-limb surgeries and who can safely undergo MRI. The goal is to link targeted rehabilitation exercises with central nervous system changes that may support improved neuromuscular control.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18–30 who have had ACL reconstruction, are highly active (Tegner >6), can perform the required tasks, can undergo MRI, and can provide informed consent.
Not a fit: Patients with prior lower-limb surgeries, neurological disorders, MRI contraindications, pregnancy, active cancer, or those outside the 18–30 high-activity range are unlikely to benefit or are excluded.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could help restore healthier brain activation patterns after ACL reconstruction and reduce re-injury risk by improving neuromuscular control.
How similar studies have performed: Related neuromuscular training programs have shown biomechanical and functional benefits in ACL rehabilitation, but using fMRI volumetric cortical measures to track those changes is relatively novel and evidence is limited.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients who have undergone anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery at any healthcare facility * Able to understand and consent, adults, who have provided informed consent to participate in the study * Male or female * Age between 18 and 30 years at the time of signing the informed consent * Tegner activity level \> 6 Exclusion Criteria: * History and/or evidence of any neurological disorder or functional impairment; * Evidence of previous surgeries on the lower limb; * Inability to provide informed consent; * Inability to perform the tasks required by the procedure; * Pregnant or breastfeeding women; * Oncology patients; * Contraindications to undergoing MRI examinations.
Where this trial is running
Bologna, Bologna
- IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli — Bologna, Bologna, Italy (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Stefano Zaffagnini
- Email: stefano.zaffagnini@ior.it
- Phone: 051636
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.