Investigating physical activity's impact on knee joint health after ACL reconstruction

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 observational study aims to explore the relationship between moderate to vigorous physical activity and cartilage metabolism markers in individuals who have undergone anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Participants will attend the laboratory multiple times, where they will wear accelerometers to track their physical activity and knee joint loading. The study involves urine and blood sample collections, questionnaires, and imaging to assess body composition and joint health. Additionally, participants will run on an instrumented treadmill to measure the forces exerted on their knees during activity.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. 18-39 years old (i.e., ≥18 and \<40 years old)
2. Had an anterior cruciate ligament injury and reconstruction 1-7 years ago (i.e., ≥1 and ≤7 years ago)
3. Can have sustained damage to meniscus or cartilage, or sustained bone bruising when injured anterior cruciate ligament
4. Can participate regardless of the type of reconstruction surgery and if undergone meniscectomy
5. Completed anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction rehabilitation and either a surgeon, doctor or physiotherapist has provided clearance to participate in physical activity
6. Be able to attend the University of Bath within 2 hours of waking

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Had another significant knee injury either before, at the same time, or after the anterior cruciate ligament injury (e.g., if they injured another ligament in their knee or had a fracture or dislocation)
2. Injured the anterior cruciate ligament in both knees (bilateral ACL injury)
3. Have/are experiencing a musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, immune, metabolic or neurological disease or disorder
4. Under 18 or over 39 (i.e., ≥40) years of age
5. Body Mass Index ≥40 kg/m²
6. Pregnancy
7. Positive responses to the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (aside from any involved knee joint issues)

Where it's running

• University of Bath
  Bath, United Kingdom Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Karl Morgan, MSc — University of Bath
• Study coordinator: Karl Morgan, MSc
• Email: kdm40@bath.ac.uk
• Phone: (0)7853220282

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

• Using intraosseous morphine to manage pain during ACL reconstruction

  This study tests if giving morphine directly into the bone can help reduce pain and the need for other pain medications in young adults having ACL surgery.

  Recruiting Phase 4 The Methodist Hospital Research Institute · Houston, Texas · NCT06511232

• Vibration therapy for knee pain after ACL surgery

  This study is testing if whole body vibration therapy can help people aged 18 to 60 recover better from knee pain after ACL surgery.

  Recruiting Chinese University of Hong Kong · Hong Kong · NCT05501210

• Using Vitamin D to Boost Quadricep Strength After ACL Injury

  This study is testing if taking Vitamin D3 can help young adults recovering from ACL surgery build stronger thigh muscles.

  Recruiting Phase 2 Chinese University of Hong Kong · Hong Kong · NCT05174611

• Comparing two types of grafts for knee ligament surgery

  This study is testing which type of graft works better for knee ligament surgery in athletes who have injured their ACL.

  Recruiting Karolinska Institutet · Stockholm, Stockholm County · NCT04295148

• Proprioceptive exercises to aid recovery after ACL surgery

  This trial will see if adding proprioceptive exercises to standard balance training helps people aged 20–40 during the early rehab period after ACL surgery.

  Recruiting Uskudar University · Sanliurfa · NCT07333092

• ACL reconstruction using a human cortical bone (Shark Screw®) versus a biocomposite interference screw

  This trial will test whether using a human cortical bone screw (Shark Screw®) instead of a biocomposite interference screw reduces tunnel widening and keeps re-rupture rates low for people having ACL reconstruction.

  Recruiting Bezirkskrankenhaus Schwaz · Schwaz, Tyrol · NCT06357091

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.