Effects of Fractal Versus Isochronous Visual Cueing on Walking and Brain Activity in Athletes with Recent ACL Reconstruction

What this Trial Is About

Anterior cruciate ligament ACL injuries are common and limit knee function in athletes, especially those involved in sports with pivoting movements. Despite surgical reconstruction and rehabilitation, many athletes experience ongoing motor control problems and variable walking patterns, increasing the risk of re-injury and joint damage. These issues stem from biomechanical problems and disrupted brain signals, yet traditional rehabilitation often overlooks this neural aspect. This trial explores new ways to improve walking patterns and brain function after ACL reconstruction using specialized visual cues. The study compares two types of visual cues during treadmill walking fractal cueing, which mimics natural walking variability, and isochronous cueing, which uses fixed timing cues. Each participant will complete two separate 12-minute walking sessions, one with fractal and one with isochronous cues, in random order with a one-week break between. Visual cues appear as a moving bar on a screen, and participants will synchronize their reconstructed legs heel strikes to these cues. Gait data and brain excitability will be measured using specialized equipment during and after the sessions. Participants will undergo assessments including gait variability analysis from treadmill sensors and brain function testing using transcranial magnetic stimulation while performing muscle contractions. Knee strength will also be measured. The study will analyze changes before and after each session to determine how the cues affect walking patterns and brain activity. Participants will receive personalized reports and follow-up assessments over 12 months. The trial aims to find if fractal cueing can enhance neuroplasticity and restore healthier gait variability in athletes recovering from ACL reconstruction.

Fractal vs Isochronous Cueing in Athletes After ACL Reconstruction