Knee isometric exercise program for anterior knee pain

Effectiveness of a Knee Isometric Program on Reducing Anterior Knee Pain and Improving Functional Outcomes

NA · The Methodist Hospital Research Institute · NCT06536426

This study tests if a special knee exercise program can help people with anterior knee pain feel better compared to standard treatment.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorThe Methodist Hospital Research Institute (other)
Locations1 site (Houston, Texas)
Trial IDNCT06536426 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of a knee isometric program (KIP) compared to the standard treatment for anterior knee pain. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the KIP or a control group, ensuring that both groups receive similar experiences in terms of physical therapy sessions and exercise duration. The study will monitor participants' adherence to the exercise program and document any pain medication usage. The goal is to determine if the KIP can provide better outcomes for patients suffering from anterior knee pain.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-65 who have experienced anterior knee pain for at least 4 weeks but no longer than 12 months.

Not a fit: Patients with neurological or degenerative musculoskeletal conditions, recent surgeries, or those currently engaged in structured strength training may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could offer a more effective treatment option for patients with anterior knee pain.

How similar studies have performed: While similar approaches have been explored, the specific efficacy of the KIP compared to the current gold standard is being tested for the first time in this context.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Accept all provisions of the study and agree to complete the program in its entirety
* Age between 18-65
* Complaint of anterior knee pain for at least 4 weeks, but no more than 12 months
* Prescribed referral for physical therapy for their knee(s) from one of the investigators

Exclusion Criteria:

* Potential participant does not agree to comply with study protocols or does not wish to be subjected to a random group allocation
* Any neurological or degenerative musculoskeletal condition involving the lower extremities
* Ages outside of 18-65
* Surgical history or fracture within the last 12 months on the affected extremity(ies)
* Currently participating in a structured strength training program
* Inability to access clinic for data collection or follow-up sessions
* Significant anatomical anomaly or limb alignment disorder as diagnosed by medical professional (femoral anteversion/retroversion, patella alta/baja, varus/valgus deformities, patella deformities/fractures, osteotomy procedures, limb lengthening procedures)
* Significant cartilage damage as diagnosed by medical professional (grade 3+ chondral defects of the femur or patella)
* Any other condition that limits full weight bearing of the affected lower extremity(ies)
* Vulnerable populations

Where this trial is running

Houston, Texas

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Anterior Knee Pain Syndrome

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.