Using mental imagery to boost leg strength after knee surgery

Mental Imagery of Open and Closed Chain Exercises to Improve Quadriceps Strength Post Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: a Feasibility Study

NA · Marquette University · NCT06858293

This study is testing if mental imagery exercises can help people recover and strengthen their leg after knee surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorMarquette University (other)
Locations1 site (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
Trial IDNCT06858293 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals who have recently undergone ACLR surgery and are currently participating in physical therapy.

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.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance recovery outcomes and strength in patients post-ACLR surgery.

How similar studies have performed: 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.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Milwaukee, 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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction, Mental Imagery, knee, strength, physical therapy

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.