Actively Recruiting
Frequency-Dependent Effects of Percutaneous Femoral Nerve Stimulation on Quadriceps Strength in Athletes With Patellar Tendinopathy
Led by Hospital Clinic of Barcelona · Updated on 2025-12-05
19
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
12 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
This study investigates the immediate effects of different peripheral electrical nerve stimulation protocols applied to the femoral nerve on quadriceps strength in athletes with patellar tendinopathy. Patellar tendinopathy is a common overuse injury that often reduces quadriceps activation and limits sports performance. Peripheral percutaneous nerve stimulation (PPNS) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) are frequently used in rehabilitation, but their frequency-dependent effects on muscle strength are not well established. In this randomized crossover trial, each participant receives three stimulation protocols in separate sessions: high-frequency PPNS (100 Hz), low-frequency PPNS (2 Hz), and conventional TENS. All stimulation is delivered at the maximal tolerated motor threshold and, for PPNS conditions, under ultrasound guidance. Quadriceps maximal isometric strength is evaluated using an isometric force sensor before and after each intervention. The primary objective is to compare the acute changes in maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) following each stimulation protocol. The study aims to clarify whether different stimulation frequencies can enhance, reduce, or have no effect on quadriceps strength in this athletic population. By identifying frequency-specific neuromodulatory responses, this study may help clinicians and sports practitioners select the most appropriate stimulation parameters to optimize rehabilitation and performance in individuals with patellar tendinopathy.
CONDITIONS
Official Title
Frequency-Dependent Effects of Percutaneous Femoral Nerve Stimulation on Quadriceps Strength in Athletes With Patellar Tendinopathy
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Adults aged 18 to 40 years
- Male recreational or competitive athletes with clinically diagnosed patellar tendinopathy for at least 3 months
- Ultrasound-confirmed patellar tendinopathy with signs such as hypoechoic areas, tendon thickening, or neovascularization
- Presence of pain during tendon-loading activities like jumping, running, or squatting
- Ability to perform maximal voluntary isometric contractions of the quadriceps
- Ability to comply with all study procedures and attend all experimental sessions
- Written informed consent provided prior to participation
You will not qualify if you...
- Previous knee surgery or traumatic knee injury within the past 12 months
- Complete or partial patellar tendon rupture
- Neurological disorders affecting lower limb strength or motor control
- Contraindications to electrical stimulation, including implanted electrical devices like pacemakers
- Current lower-limb radiculopathy or neuropathy
- Skin infections, open wounds, or dermatological conditions at the stimulation site
- Use of analgesics, anti-inflammatories, or corticosteroid injections within the past 48 hours
- Participation in another interventional study in the previous 30 days
- Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy
AI-Screening
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Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Blanquerna University
Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain, 08020
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
J
Javier Picañol Parraga Picañol, Phd
CONTACT
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
DOUBLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
CROSSOVER
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
3
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