Using mental imagery to boost leg strength after knee surgery
Official title: Mental Imagery of Open and Closed Chain Exercises to Improve Quadriceps Strength Post Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: a Feasibility Study
Run by Marquette University · NCT06858293 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if mental imagery exercises can help people recover and strengthen their leg after knee surgery.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Marquette University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Milwaukee, Wisconsin) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 14, 2025 |
| Main results expected | January 28, 2026 |
| Study ends | January 28, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | March 10, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06858293 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals who have recently undergone ACLR surgery and are currently participating in physical therapy.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are more than nine months post-ACLR surgery or have conditions that limit their ability to follow commands may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This clinical trial aims to evaluate the feasibility of mental imagery training for individuals recovering from anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) surgery. Participants will engage in a five-day mental imagery exercise schedule while undergoing physical therapy, focusing on enhancing strength in the injured leg. The study will assess completion rates of the mental imagery exercises and measure any improvements in leg strength, comparing different types of mental imagery exercises such as leg extensions and squats. Two testing sessions will be conducted to evaluate leg function before and after the intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance recovery outcomes and strength in patients post-ACLR surgery.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of mental imagery in rehabilitation is a growing field, this specific approach targeting ACLR recovery is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * post anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) surgery * cleared to participate in physical therapy * currently in physical therapy related to ACLR Exclusion Criteria: * greater than 9 months post ACLR surgery * history of lower back of hip pain that would limit lower limb motor testing * current neurological condition that limits muscle strength * history of substance abuse in the last 5 years * any uncontrolled medical condition * inability to follow 2-step commands
Where it's running
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Marquette University
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Allison S Hyngstrom, PT, Ph.D.
- Email: allison.hyngstrom@marquette.edu
- Phone: 4142884566
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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.