Actively Recruiting
Study of Functional Magnetic Resonance Signal Variations in Patients Undergoing Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With the Application of a Dedicated Neuromotor Training
Led by Stefano Zaffagnini · Updated on 2026-02-27
12
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
N/A
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
S
Stefano Zaffagnini
Lead Sponsor
I
IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Lower limb injuries, especially anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, are common and often have serious consequences for athletes. These injuries carry a high risk of re-injury and early knee osteoarthritis. The study focuses on how brain activity relates to movement patterns after ACL reconstruction and explores whether neuromotor training can improve these brain patterns to reduce injury risk. Participants will undergo a targeted neuromotor training program designed to improve biomechanical and neuromuscular control. The study will measure brain activation using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) before training begins and after it is completed. This approach aims to see if neuromotor training can reduce neural compensations in brain areas linked to movement, supporting a safer return to sport. During the study, patients will have fMRI scans and movement quality assessments over a period of 6 to 9 months. Researchers will analyze changes in brain activity, movement biomechanics, ground reaction forces, and functional brain connectivity. Safety will be monitored by tracking any adverse events. The study's findings may help develop better rehabilitation protocols to lower the chance of ACL re-injury.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Study of Functional Magnetic Resonance Signal Variations in Patients Undergoing Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With the Application of a Dedicated Neuromotor Training
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Patients who have undergone anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery at any healthcare facility
- Able to understand and consent, adults, who have provided informed consent to participate in the study
- Male or female
- Age between 18 and 30 years at the time of signing the informed consent
- Tegner activity level > 6
You will not qualify if you...
- History and/or evidence of any neurological disorder or functional impairment
- Evidence of previous surgeries on the lower limb
- Inability to provide informed consent
- Inability to perform the tasks required by the procedure
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Oncology patients
- Contraindications to undergoing MRI examinations
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - Between 6 and 9 months per participant based on ongoing analyses
Participants undergo anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery followed by a dedicated neuromotor training program to assess changes in brain activation and functional connectivity.
Multiple visits during the training period including fMRI assessments
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli
Bologna, Bologna, Italy, 40136
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
S
Stefano Zaffagnini
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
NA
Model
SINGLE_GROUP
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
1
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