Radial Shockwave Therapy Plus Exercise for Iliotibial Band Syndrome
Official title: Effectiveness of Radial Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy in Individuals With Iliotibial Band Syndrome
Run by Cairo University · NCT07668011 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether adding radial extracorporeal shockwave therapy to a standard ITBS exercise program can reduce knee pain and improve leg function in active adults with ITBS.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Cairo University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Giza, Giza Governorate) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 10, 2026 |
| Main results expected | August 10, 2026 |
| Study ends | August 30, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | June 25, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07668011 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Physically active adults aged 18–45 with clinician-confirmed ITBS and positive Noble and/or Ober tests.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals who do not respond to ESWT or who have contraindications to ESWT may not experience additional benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This interventional study compares two approaches for iliotibial band syndrome in physically active adults. Participants are randomized to receive either the standard ITBS exercise program with sham shockwave therapy or the standard exercise program with real radial ESWT. The aim is to see if adding rESWT provides greater pain relief, higher pain pressure thresholds, and better lower-extremity function and hip strength. The trial uses a sham-controlled design to isolate the effects of rESWT. Recruitment is at Cairo University Hospitals in Egypt, with adults aged 18 to 45 who have a physician-confirmed ITBS and positive functional tests.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients may experience greater pain relief and improved hip and leg function when using rESWT in combination with exercise.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research suggests ESWT combined with exercise may improve outcomes for musculoskeletal overuse conditions, but evidence is mixed and context-specific.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Physically active individuals aged 18 and 45 years * Have a clinical diagnosis of iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) confirmed by physician within the previous four weeks. * Report lateral knee pain during running or other functional activities * No history of direct trauma * Have a positive Noble compression or/and Ober test. Exclusion Criteria: * History of knee surgery,fracture , meniscal or ligamentous injury within the past year * Any fracture involving the lower extremity within the previous six months * Neurological disorders * Lumbar radiculopathy * Systemic inflammatory disease * Any medical condition affecting gat or lower extremity function. * Have received corticosteroid injection, shockwave therapy, or physical therapy treatment for ITBS within the previous six months * Use of NDAID's or analgesics later than 2 weeks * Individuals with contraindications to ESWT, including pregnancy, bleeding disorders, or use of anticoagulant medication.
Where it's running
-
Cairo University Hospitals
Giza, Giza Governorate, Egypt Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ahmed El Melhat, PhD — Cairo University
- Study coordinator: Ahmad El Melhat, PhD
- Email: ahmed.elmelhat@cu.edu.lb
- Phone: +20 11 12595022
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.