Early Range of Motion Exercise for Patellar Dislocation
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether adolescents with a first-time dislocated kneecap heal better with a brace or by moving their knee early. It compares two methods: using a knee immobilizer for two weeks versus starting physical therapy immediately, allowing early knee movement (known as Early Range of Motion). Ideal participants are teens who recently experienced their first kneecap dislocation and feel knee instability, as if it might pop out. They should have been referred to a specific sports medicine clinic within 10 days of injury and be able to engage in a 3-month rehab program. The study aims to identify the best approach for faster and more effective recovery. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the opportunity to contribute to important research that could improve recovery methods for future patients.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, it mentions that participants should be free of certain co-morbidities that could limit rehabilitation, so it's best to discuss your specific medications with the trial team.
What prior data suggests that this early range of motion exercise is safe for patellar dislocation?
Research shows that starting gentle movement exercises soon after a kneecap dislocation is generally safe and well-received. Studies have found that early physical therapy can improve knee function and mobility. This approach often results in higher patient satisfaction.
Few reports of problems have emerged from starting these exercises early, suggesting they are a promising recovery option. Patients often regain full movement and experience less swelling, indicating a safe recovery.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about early range of motion exercises for patellar dislocation because these exercises allow patients to start moving their knee and begin physical therapy immediately after the injury, unlike the standard treatment of immobilization with a knee brace. This approach aims to maintain joint flexibility and muscle strength, potentially speeding up recovery and reducing stiffness. By allowing early movement, patients might experience quicker rehabilitation and a faster return to normal activities compared to the traditional method of keeping the knee immobilized for several weeks.
What evidence suggests that early range of motion is effective for patellar dislocation?
Research has shown that starting gentle knee movements soon after a kneecap dislocation can be beneficial. In this trial, participants in the "Early range of motion" arm will move their knee and begin outpatient physical therapy immediately. Studies have found that patients who start moving their knee early recover better and faster within four weeks compared to those who keep their knee still. Early movement improves flexibility and strength, leading to a quicker recovery. This approach aims to keep the knee moving to prevent stiffness and speed up healing. Based on these findings, early movement is a promising way to enhance recovery after a knee dislocation.16789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Scott McKay, MD
Principal Investigator
Baylor College of Medicine
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for male and female adolescents aged 11-17 who have experienced their first knee cap dislocation. They should be free of serious health issues that could interfere with rehabilitation, able to follow a 3-month rehab protocol, and must not require surgery for any associated knee injuries.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either a knee immobilizer for 2 weeks followed by physical therapy or start physical therapy immediately
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for recovery progress and effectiveness of treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Early Range of Motion
Trial Overview
The study is testing whether teenagers with a dislocated kneecap recover better with early range of motion exercises compared to using a brace. The focus is on the effectiveness of immediate rehabilitation without immobilization.
How Is the Trial Designed?
2
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Active Control
Patients in this group will be allowed to move the knee and start outpatient physical therapy and treatment immediately.
Patients in this group will be given a knee immobilizer to wear for 2 weeks and then receive outpatient physical therapy evaluation and treatment
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Baylor College of Medicine
Lead Sponsor
Citations
Effect of Early Range of Motion Following First Time ...
This study will look at two different ways to treat teen-age patients who have had a dislocation of their knee cap. Both groups will receive the physical ...
Impact of the Number of Patellar Dislocations on Outcomes ...
Patients with >2 patellar dislocations before MPFL reconstruction exhibited poorer PROs at a median of 4.8 years postoperation compared with ...
The Effects of Early Range of Motion Versus Immobilization ...
Patients that underwent early ROM following LPD scored significantly better across patient derived outcome measures and functional outcomes at 4 weeks ...
Patient-reported Outcomes Following Nonoperative ...
The purpose of this study was to analyze patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) after nonoperative treatment following a first-time pediatric patellar ...
Conservative management following patellar dislocation
This study investigates the outcomes of conservative and surgical management in adults with patellofemoral instability.
Return to Play Considerations After Patellar Instability - PMC
Individuals were cleared to return to sport when they had achieved full passive motion, no joint effusion, and a quadriceps limb-symmetry index ...
Physical Therapy Management of the First-Time Patellar ...
This study evaluates conservative management for first-time patellar instability events, discussing rehabilitation strategies and criteria for return to ...
Early Range of Motion Exercise for Patellar Dislocation
Trial Overview The study is testing whether teenagers with a dislocated kneecap recover better with early range of motion exercises compared to using a brace.
Physical Therapy Management of the First-Time Patellar ...
Early active ROM and strength training are associated with improved knee function, increased ROM, and higher patient satisfaction.
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