NCT07472088 · University of Kansas Medical Center
Assessing the Association Between WBCT PFJ Morphological Metrics and Knee Symptoms
What this study is about
Patellofemoral joint (PFJ) pain is a common, often chronic, aching pain behind or around the kneecap, frequently called "runner's knee". It occurs when the kneecap does not glide smoothly over the thigh bone, often due to muscle weakness or overuse. It makes sitting for long periods, climbing stairs, or kneeling painful.
View original scientific description
Patellofemoral joint (PFJ) pain is a common, often chronic, aching pain behind or around the kneecap, frequently called "runner's knee". It occurs when the kneecap does not glide smoothly over the thigh bone, often due to muscle weakness or overuse. It makes sitting for long periods, climbing stairs, or kneeling painful. Symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common, long-term condition where the protective cartilage in the knee joint wears away, causing the bones to rub together, leading to daily pain and stiffness. In simple terms, it is a "wear-and-tear" disease of the entire joint that makes walking, climbing stairs, or bending the knee difficult. The PFJ is where the patella (kneecap) meets the femoral trochlea (front part of the lower thigh bone) at the front of the knee. Patellar tracking refers to the movement of the patella that begins to engage in the distal femoral trochlear groove (smooth, U-shaped groove at the bottom of the thigh bone). By doing this study, we hope to advance clinical knowledge of the PTJ features in a more natural position by using weight-bearing computed tomography (WBCT) images while the leg is straight and slightly bent. Determining links between specific knee symptoms and the PTJ structure on WBCT images could enable providers to effectively target the underlying causes and to develop targeted treatments.
Interventions
RADIATION
WBCT
Images of the knee will be acquired using a WBCT, which provides a three-dimensional view of the patellofemoral joint in a loaded configuration.
Primary outcome measures
TT-TG
Time frame: From enrollment to end of study (1 day)
Tibial Tuberosity - Trochlear Grove (TT-TG) will be measured on 3D WBCT knee images acquired at 0° and 20±5° of knee flexion.
reTRF
Time frame: From enrollment to end of study (1 day)
Relative external tibiofemoral rotation (reTFR) will be measured on 3D WBCT knee images acquired at 0° and 20±5° of knee flexion.
Congruence Angle
Time frame: From enrollment to end of study (1 day)
Congruence angle will be measured on 3D WBCT knee images acquired at 20±5° of knee flexion.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Knee pain, falling into either of the two groups, i.e., PFJ pain (pain only in the anterior region of the knee) or symptomatic knee OA (pain in any other area of the knee, including the anterior region)
Exclusion criteria
- Bilateral total knee arthroplasty
- Unable to stand safely for 2 minutes with support
- Any condition that the investigator identifies as inappropriate for participation (e.g., unable to participant in consent process, unsafe to stand on WBCT platform, etc.)
Where
- Kansas City, Kansas
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 7, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations