Frequency-Dependent Effects of Percutaneous Femoral Nerve Stimulation on Quadriceps Streng
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
| Condition(s) | Patellar Tendinopathy / Jumpers Knee |
|---|---|
| Status | Recruiting |
| Phase | NA |
| Study type | Interventional |
| Summary | 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 |
| Who can participate | Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 18 to 40 years. * Recreational or competitive athletes with clinically diagnosed patellar tendinopathy for at least 3 months. * Ultrasound-confirmed patellar tendinopathy, including hypoechoic areas, tendon thickening, or neovascularization consistent with clinical diagnosis. Presence of pain during tendon-loading activities (e.g., jumping, running, 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 obtained prior to participation. Exclusion Criteria: * Previous knee surgery or traumatic knee injury within the past 12 months. * Complete or partial patellar tendon rupture. * Neurological disorders affecting |
| Ages | 18 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | Male |
| Lead sponsor | Hospital Clinic of Barcelona |
| Locations | Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain |
| Start date | 2025-09-20 |
| NCT ID | NCT07237867 |
| Official listing | https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT07237867 |