Gentle brain stimulation to boost quadriceps recovery after ACL reconstruction
Official title: Determining the Effects of Non-invasive Brain Stimulation to Improve Quadriceps Muscle Function After ACL Reconstruction.
Run by Arcadia University · NCT07128602 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This research will test whether gentle, non-invasive brain stimulation given during thigh-strengthening sessions helps women aged 18–35 regain stronger quadriceps after ACL surgery.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 35 Years |
| Sex | Women only |
| Enrollment | 42 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Arcadia University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Glenside, Pennsylvania) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 6, 2025 |
| Main results expected | January 31, 2028 |
| Study ends | March 1, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | May 7, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07128602 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Women aged 18–35 who are 2–6 months after a primary ACL reconstruction, without prior lower-extremity surgery or neurological conditions, are ideal candidates.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with multiple-ligament repairs, osteochondral procedures, prior ACL injuries, metal implants in the head/neck, a history of seizures or neurological disease, severe migraines, or a concussion within six months are unlikely to benefit from this protocol or are ineligible.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This randomized, triple-blinded study will enroll 42 women aged 18–35 who are 2–6 months post-primary ACL reconstruction and randomize them to receive either active or sham anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) during isolated quadriceps exercises. Participants will complete six treatment sessions while quadriceps performance is measured on an isokinetic dynamometer. Investigators will measure three aspects of quadriceps muscle performance (strength, speed, and steadiness) and two measures of corticospinal excitability to track neural changes. The study will also examine whether changes in corticospinal excitability are linked to improvements in muscle performance in female participants.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could make postoperative rehabilitation more effective for women by improving quadriceps strength and function after ACL reconstruction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that tDCS can increase corticospinal excitability and improve motor performance in other rehabilitation settings, but applying it specifically to quadriceps recovery after ACL reconstruction in young women is a relatively novel application.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: \- females 2-6 months after ACL reconstruction Exclusion Criteria: * multiple ligament reconstruction * osteochondral procedures * any previous lower extremity surgery * previous ACL injury * Metal or implants in the head or neck * history of neurological disease * seizures * severe migraines * concussion within the last 6 months
Where it's running
-
Ryan Zarzycki
Glenside, Pennsylvania, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Ryan Zarzycki, PhD
- Email: zarzyckir@arcadia.edu
- Phone: 215-572-2852
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Isokinetic vs Plyometric Training After ACL Reconstruction
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This project will test whether ultrasound speckle-tracking can measure how ligaments, tendons, and hamstrings stretch and move in athletes and patients recovering from injuries.
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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.