Improving recovery from patellar instability with blood flow restriction training

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This research focuses on evaluating the effectiveness of blood flow restriction training (BFRT) in enhancing recovery for individuals suffering from patellar instability. Participants will be randomly assigned to either standard physical therapy or standard therapy combined with BFRT, which involves using an air cuff to temporarily limit blood flow to the thigh muscles. The study aims to determine if BFRT can accelerate strength recovery after knee injuries. Participants will be closely monitored throughout the treatment to ensure safety.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosis of traumatic patellar instability (either primary or recurrent) determined by an American Board of Family Medicine certified physician with a Certificate of Added Qualifications in Sports Medicine or licensed Physical Therapist utilizing clinical examination, radiographic imaging, and patients' reports of instability
* Age 14 to 40 years
* Skeletally mature with closed growth plates visualized by radiograph
* A score of 80 or more on the Sports Activity Scale, which corresponds to participating in "running, twisting, turning (tennis, racquetball, handball, ice hockey, field hockey, skiing, wrestling)" at least 1-3 times per week
* Desire to resume pre-injury activity level

Exclusion Criteria:

* Concomitant osteochondral lesion requiring surgical fixation
* Radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis (\< Kellgren-Lawrence Grade 2)
* Previous ipsilateral or contralateral knee surgery
* Most recent instability event more than 3 months before enrollment
* History of any inflammatory disorder
* BMI \> 35 kg/m2
* Diabetes or uncontrolled hypertension
* Varicose veins or a history of personal or immediate family history (parental or sibling) of deep vein thrombosis
* Pre-existing conditions or previous surgeries that effect the ability to walk
* Planned trips or vacations that will result in the inability to attend 4 consecutive physical therapy sessions

Where it's running

• UK Healthcare at Turfland
  Lexington, Kentucky, United States Recruiting
• University of Kentucky Biomotion Laboratory
  Lexington, Kentucky, United States Recruiting
• Center for Sports Performance and Research
  Foxborough, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting
• Foxboro Sports Medicine Clinic
  Foxborough, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Caitlin Conley, PhD
• Email: caitlin.conley2@uky.edu
• Phone: 8592571939

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.