Improving thigh muscle function after ACL reconstruction using brain conditioning
Operant Conditioning of Motor Evoked Responses to Improve Quadriceps Function in Individuals With Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
NA · University of Michigan · NCT03209531
This study is testing if a brain training technique can help people recover stronger thigh muscles after ACL surgery.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 12 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Michigan (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Ann Arbor, Michigan) |
| Trial ID | NCT03209531 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates whether operant conditioning, a form of mental coaching, can enhance thigh muscle activation and strength following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The research focuses on addressing quadriceps weakness, a common consequence of ACL injuries, which can lead to further knee joint issues. Participants will undergo non-invasive transcranial magnetic stimulation to condition brain responses and improve muscle function. The goal is to determine the effectiveness of this approach in reducing muscle activation deficits post-surgery.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18-45 who have suffered an acute, complete ACL rupture and have undergone ACL reconstructive surgery.
Not a fit: Patients with previous ACL injuries, significant knee issues, or certain medical conditions may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve recovery outcomes for patients undergoing ACL reconstruction by enhancing muscle function and reducing the risk of joint degeneration.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of operant conditioning in this context is relatively novel, similar approaches in rehabilitation have shown promise in other studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * aged 18-45 years * suffered an acute, complete ACL rupture * have undergone ACL reconstructive surgery * willingness to participate in testing and follow-up as outlined in the protocol Exclusion Criteria: * have suffered a previous ACL injury; * have undergone previous major surgery to either knee; * have a history of recent significant knee injury (other than ACL) or lower-extremity fracture; * have a history of uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension; * be pregnant or plan to become pregnant; * have metal implants in the head; * have electronic devices in their ear or heart (e.g., cochlear implants or cardiac pacemakers); * have unexplained recurrent headaches; * have a recent history of seizures; * be taking drugs that reduce seizure threshold; * have a history of repeated fainting spells;
Where this trial is running
Ann Arbor, Michigan
- University of Michigan — Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Chandramouli Krishnan, PhD — Assistant Professor
- Study coordinator: Chandramouli Krishnan, PhD
- Email: mouli@umich.edu
- Phone: 734.936.4031
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.
Conditions: Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury, Quadriceps activation deficits, ACL, Surgery, Quadrcieps weakness, Operant conditioning, Cortical excitability