Vitamin D as an Intervention for Improving Quadricep Muscle Strength in Patients After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Randomized Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how vitamin D supplements might help improve quadriceps muscle strength in patients recovering from anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Quadriceps muscle atrophy after ACLR is common and can affect knee function and increase the risk of reinjury. Since vitamin D plays a role in muscle health and athletes often have vitamin D deficiencies, this trial explores whether vitamin D supplements can enhance muscle recovery after ACLR. Participants are randomly assigned to receive either a daily 2000 IU vitamin D3 capsule or a matching placebo capsule for 16 weeks. This is a double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial, meaning neither the participants nor the researchers know who receives vitamin D or placebo during the study period. The study aims to assess the effect of vitamin D supplementation on muscle strength and vitamin D levels post-surgery. During the study, participants will be monitored before surgery and at several time points up to 12 months after ACLR. Muscle strength, biochemical markers, MRI and ultrasound muscle thickness, knee stability, physical activity, and pain levels will be assessed. Researchers will track changes in quadriceps strength and related outcomes to understand vitamin D's impact on muscle recovery and knee function after ACLR.

Vitamin D to Improve Quadricep Muscle Strength