Understanding psychological stress in young athletes with knee OCD

Psychological Response and Readiness to Return to Sports Associated With the Diagnosis and Treatment of Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Knee

Observational Boston Children's Hospital · NCT04649905

This study looks at how young athletes with knee osteochondritis dissecans feel mentally and emotionally as they go through treatment and recovery to see if it affects their return to sports.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment120 (estimated)
Ages11 Years to 19 Years
SexAll
SponsorBoston Children's Hospital Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Boston, Massachusetts and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04649905 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess the psychological stress and readiness for return to sports in young athletes diagnosed with osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the knee. It will evaluate how these patients respond psychologically to their diagnosis and treatment, and whether their stress and depression levels change throughout their standard care. The study focuses on pediatric and adolescent patients, as their psychological responses to injury and recovery may significantly impact their rehabilitation outcomes. The research seeks to fill a gap in understanding the mental health aspects associated with knee OCD treatment.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are young athletes aged 11-19 diagnosed with knee OCD confirmed by imaging.

Not a fit: Patients who have previously undergone surgical treatment for knee OCD or are not fluent in English may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved psychological support and rehabilitation strategies for young athletes with knee OCD.

How similar studies have performed: While studies have explored psychological responses in ACL injuries, this specific focus on knee OCD in young athletes is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Between the ages 11-19
* Diagnosis of knee OCD confirmed by X-ray or MRI

Exclusion Criteria:

* Had previous surgical treatment for their knee OCD lesion
* Received knee OCD non-operative treatment on the ipsilateral side for \>6 months and taken out of sports/physical activities
* Guardian not comfortable with child completing survey
* Is not fluent in English

Where this trial is running

Boston, Massachusetts and 1 other locations

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 Osteochondritis Dissecans KneePsychological Stress
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.