Focused Shockwave Therapy for Knee Pain

This trial tests whether Focused Shockwave (FSW) therapy can reduce knee pain after surgery for a torn ACL, using a specific type of graft. The study compares the effects of real FSW therapy to a placebo (fake treatment) over three weekly sessions. It suits adults who have undergone ACL surgery with certain grafts and have not previously tried similar shockwave treatments. Participants must speak English and provide consent. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to explore a new treatment option that could potentially improve recovery outcomes.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research has shown that Focused Shockwave Therapy (FSW) is generally safe for treating knee pain. Studies have found that patients usually tolerate FSW well, with optimal results from three sessions spaced a week apart. Each session involves 2000 impulses and is considered both effective and safe.

Most treatments for knee pain involve medication, physical therapy, or surgery. But focused shockwave therapy (FSW) works differently, targeting pain by sending high-energy sound waves to the affected area. Unlike traditional treatments that may take longer to provide relief, FSW has the potential to improve symptoms after just a few sessions. Researchers are excited because this non-invasive therapy could offer a quicker, drug-free alternative for managing knee pain, minimizing the need for more invasive procedures.

This trial will compare Focused Shockwave Therapy (FSWT) with a sham treatment to evaluate its effectiveness in reducing knee pain. Studies have shown that FSWT can effectively reduce knee pain and improve knee function. Specifically, in people with knee osteoarthritis, FSWT led to a 45% decrease in pain after 12 weeks, outperforming groups that did not receive this treatment. This therapy sends shockwaves to the painful area, potentially aiding healing and reducing swelling. Research also shows that FSWT can enhance knee function, as evidenced by improved scores on tests measuring knee stability and movement. These findings suggest FSWT could be promising for reducing knee pain after ACL surgery.¹⁶⁷⁸⁹