Mindfulness intervention for patients undergoing ACL surgery

The Influence of Mindfulness on Patient-Reported Outcomes, Return to Sport and Re-Injury Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction Surgery

Not applicable Interventional University of Wisconsin, Madison · NCT05542563

This study is testing whether an 8-week mindfulness program delivered through an app can help people recovering from ACL surgery feel better, manage pain and anxiety, and get back to sports safely.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages16 Years to 40 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Wisconsin, Madison Academic / other
Locations1 site (Madison, Wisconsin)
Trial IDNCT05542563 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effects of an 8-week mindfulness intervention delivered remotely via the Healthy Minds Program App for patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery. It aims to assess improvements in patient-reported outcomes such as pain, quality of life, anxiety, and the likelihood of returning to sports. The study employs a single-blind, randomized controlled trial design to determine the impact of mindfulness training on both psychological and physical recovery following surgery. Additionally, it seeks to explore the potential reduction in re-injury risk among participants who return to sports after the intervention.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 16-40 who are scheduled for ACL surgery and have access to a compatible mobile device.

Not a fit: Patients with serious mental illnesses or significant prior experience with mindfulness practices may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve recovery outcomes and quality of life for ACL surgery patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with mindfulness interventions in similar contexts, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 16-40 years old at the time of the pre-operative visit
* Regular access to a mobile device compatible with the Healthy Minds Program (HMP) App (Android or iOS)
* Undergoing ACL surgery

Exclusion Criteria:

* Prior diagnosis of serious mental illness (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, etc).
* Significant prior experience with meditation or mindfulness, defined as greater than 30 minutes in a month during the past year
* Knee injury requiring multi-ligament reconstruction
* Prior ipsilateral knee surgery
* Prior contralateral ACL reconstruction

Where this trial is running

Madison, Wisconsin

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.
Conditions ACLACL InjuryACL Surgerymindfulness
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.