RECRUITING

Determining the Effects of Non-invasive Brain Stimulation to Improve Quadriceps Muscle Function After ACL Reconstruction

Description

After knee surgery for a torn ACL, many women struggle with weak thigh muscles for years, partly due to reduced brain signals to these muscles. Our research tests a new approach to improve recovery by using low-level brain stimulation to boost these signals. We'll study 42 women, aged 18-35, who had ACL surgery. They'll be split into two groups: one receiving real brain stimulation and another getting a placebo, both during thigh-strengthening exercises. Over six sessions, we'll measure thigh muscle strength, speed, and steadiness, plus two brain signal measures, using special equipment. We'll also check if stronger brain signals lead to better muscle performance, especially in women. Our goal is to show that this new method strengthens thigh muscles better than standard rehab, helping women recover better after surgery. If successful, this could improve physical therapy for women recovering from ACL surgery, making daily activities and return to sport easier.

Study Overview

Study Details

Study overview

After knee surgery for a torn ACL, many women struggle with weak thigh muscles for years, partly due to reduced brain signals to these muscles. Our research tests a new approach to improve recovery by using low-level brain stimulation to boost these signals. We'll study 42 women, aged 18-35, who had ACL surgery. They'll be split into two groups: one receiving real brain stimulation and another getting a placebo, both during thigh-strengthening exercises. Over six sessions, we'll measure thigh muscle strength, speed, and steadiness, plus two brain signal measures, using special equipment. We'll also check if stronger brain signals lead to better muscle performance, especially in women. Our goal is to show that this new method strengthens thigh muscles better than standard rehab, helping women recover better after surgery. If successful, this could improve physical therapy for women recovering from ACL surgery, making daily activities and return to sport easier.

Determining the Effects of Non-invasive Brain Stimulation to Improve Quadriceps Muscle Function After ACL Reconstruction.

Determining the Effects of Non-invasive Brain Stimulation to Improve Quadriceps Muscle Function After ACL Reconstruction

Condition
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation
Intervention / Treatment

-

Contacts and Locations

Glenside

Ryan Zarzycki, Glenside, Pennsylvania, United States, 19038

Participation Criteria

Researchers look for people who fit a certain description, called eligibility criteria. Some examples of these criteria are a person's general health condition or prior treatments.

For general information about clinical research, read Learn About Studies.

Eligibility Criteria

  • * females 2-6 months after ACL reconstruction
  • * 1) multiple ligament reconstruction, 2) osteochondral procedures, 3) any previous lower extremity surgery, and 4) previous ACL injury. Metal or implants in the head or neck, history of neurological disease, seizures, severe migraines, and concussion within the last 6 months are TMS specific exclusion criteria.

Ages Eligible for Study

18 Years to 35 Years

Sexes Eligible for Study

FEMALE

Accepts Healthy Volunteers

No

Collaborators and Investigators

Arcadia University,

Study Record Dates

2028-06-04