Using Vitamin D to Boost Quadricep Strength After ACL Injury
Official title: Vitamin D as an Intervention for Improving Quadricep Muscle Strength in Patients After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Randomized Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Run by Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT05174611 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if taking Vitamin D3 can help young adults recovering from ACL surgery build stronger thigh muscles.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 2 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Chinese University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 17, 2025 |
| Main results expected | March 17, 2028 |
| Study ends | September 17, 2029 |
| Registry record updated | March 18, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT05174611 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18-40 with a unilateral ACL injury and low serum vitamin D levels who are four months post-surgery.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with significant knee injuries or conditions that require altered rehabilitation, or those who are non-compliant with rehabilitation, 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 investigates the effects of Vitamin D3 supplementation on quadriceps muscle strength in patients recovering from anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The study focuses on individuals aged 18-40 who have experienced a unilateral ACL injury and have low pre-operative serum vitamin D levels. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either Vitamin D3 or a placebo, with the aim of determining if Vitamin D can enhance muscle mass and strength during rehabilitation. The trial seeks to address the persistent quadriceps muscle atrophy that affects recovery outcomes and return-to-play criteria.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved muscle strength and recovery outcomes for patients after ACL reconstruction.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using Vitamin D for this purpose may be novel, there is existing literature on the importance of vitamin D in muscle health, suggesting potential for success.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Aged 18-40 with unilateral ACL injury 2. Sporting injury with a Tegner score of 7 3. Pre-op serum vitamin D level \<20 ng/ml 4. 4 months post-ACLR with serum Vitamin D level remained \<20ng/ml 5. LSI for quadriceps strength \<70% of contralateral leg at 4-month isokinetic assessment 6. Both knees without history of injury/prior surgery Exclusion Criteria: 1. Concomitant bone fracture, major meniscus injury or full-thickness chondral injuries requiring altered rehabilitation program post-operatively 2. Pre-operative radiographic signs of arthritis 3. Metal implants that would cause interference on MRI 4. Non-HS graft for ACLR 5. Patient non-compliant to the rehabilitation program 6. Regular sunbed users
Where it's running
-
The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Michael Tim-Yun Ong
- Email: michael.ong@cuhk.edu.hk
- Phone: 26364171
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Using intraosseous morphine to manage pain during ACL reconstruction
This study tests if giving morphine directly into the bone can help reduce pain and the need for other pain medications in young adults having ACL surgery.
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Vibration therapy for knee pain after ACL surgery
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Proprioceptive exercises to aid recovery after ACL surgery
This trial will see if adding proprioceptive exercises to standard balance training helps people aged 20–40 during the early rehab period after ACL surgery.
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Using blood flow restriction training to help adolescents recover after ACL surgery
This study is testing if combining blood flow restriction training with regular rehab helps teenagers recover better and faster after ACL surgery.
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Effects of Vibration on Knee Health After ACL Surgery
This study is testing if adding vibration therapy to regular rehab can help people recovering from ACL surgery have better knee health and lower the chance of future injuries.
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.