Shocking ACL recovery: electric pulses and eccentric lifts show promise

NCT ID NCT03626857

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether adding neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) and eccentric leg press exercises to standard rehabilitation can help people regain muscle strength and protect knee cartilage after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. 135 participants who had ACL surgery were assigned to different rehab combinations. The goal was to see if these extra therapies improve muscle function and potentially lower the risk of future knee osteoarthritis.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) device and eccentric leg press exercise

What this could lead to

If successful, this approach could improve muscle recovery and reduce the risk of post-traumatic knee osteoarthritis after ACL reconstruction.

What could go wrong

This is a completed early-stage study with 135 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The interventions are add-ons to standard rehab, not a standalone cure.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • MedSport

    Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, United States

  • University of Michigan

    Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48109, United States