Ways to Boost Quadriceps Power After ACL Surgery
Official title: Clinical Interventions to Acutely Enhance Quadriceps Output After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Run by University of Wisconsin, Madison · NCT07674784 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether neuromuscular electrical stimulation or hamstring vibration can help people 2–4 months after ACL reconstruction increase their quadriceps strength.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 22 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Wisconsin, Madison Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Madison, Wisconsin) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 17, 2026 |
| Main results expected | August 2027 |
| Study ends | August 2027 |
| Registry record updated | November 3, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07674784 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults 2–4 months post-ACLR with the ability to walk without an assistive device and no contraindications to NMES.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with bilateral ACLR history on the same leg, significant prior lower-extremity surgery, or severe pain during strengthening may see limited or no benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Participants who recently had ACL reconstruction are randomized to receive either 20 minutes of NMES during rehab exercises or 20 minutes of hamstring vibration, in two 60-minute sessions at least a week apart. Each visit includes a brief warm-up, patient surveys, pre- and post-intervention leg tests, and the assigned intervention to measure acute effects on quadriceps performance. The trial aims to see if these approaches reduce neural inhibition and boost quadriceps strength, and whether responses differ based on initial inhibition levels. The study plans to enroll about 22 participants and follows them for 2–3 weeks. The primary focus is on short-term changes in quadriceps performance after these interventions in people within 4 months of ACL reconstruction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the interventions could provide quick, non-drug options to improve quadriceps strength after ACL surgery.
How similar studies have gone: Prior clinical use of NMES and vibration in similar post-ACL settings has shown potential benefits, but results vary by individual and context.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Have undergone ACLR within the previous 4 months * Are at least 2 months post-ACLR Exclusion Criteria: * A history of ACLR on both legs * Since the most recent ACLR: * secondary lower extremity surgery * leg or foot fracture * Unable to walk without an assistive device * Pain of greater than 5/10 during quadriceps strengthening exercises with the surgical limb * Cannot achieve 90 degrees of knee flexion with the surgical limb * People with contraindications to NMES * Anyone who had a previous skin reaction to NMES or attempted but could not tolerate NMES * Peripheral neuropathy or other neurological conditions
Where it's running
-
UW Health
Madison, Wisconsin, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Daniel Cobian, DPT, PhD — University of Wisconsin, Madison
- Study coordinator: Daniel Cobian, DPT, PhD
- Email: cobian@ortho.wisc.edu
- Phone: 608-262-0013
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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This study looks at how often people who had ACL surgery from 2020 to 2030 experience re-injury and how their recovery affects their ability to return to sports and quality of life.
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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.