NCT06208631 · Stanford University
Effects of Movement Retraining on Knee Loading in Individuals With Knee Osteoarthritis
What this study is about
This study investigates how well individuals with knee osteoarthritis can learn to alter their calf muscle activation using haptic biofeedback while walking and evaluates how these changes affect knee loading.
View original scientific description
This study investigates how well individuals with knee osteoarthritis can learn to alter their calf muscle activation using haptic biofeedback while walking and evaluates how these changes affect knee loading. Prior research has utilized musculoskeletal simulations to determine that reducing the activation of one of the calf muscles, the gastrocnemius, can have a large impact on reducing knee loading. However, this has not been tested in individuals with knee osteoarthritis. In this study, participants will be trained to alter the activation of their gastrocnemius muscle, by receiving haptic feedback after each step. The feedback will indicate how the participant changed their muscle activation relative to baseline. Some participants will train on a treadmill in the laboratory for up to two sessions, with 30 minutes of walking with feedback in each session. If a participant can learn to adjust their muscle activation in the first training session, they will be able to complete the second training session. Other participants will train outside the laboratory for one session with 30 minutes of walking with feedback to investigate changes in knee loading while using the new walking strategy during over-ground walking. The movement data collected during the training sessions will be used as inputs to computer simulations of the musculoskeletal system to determine if walking with the new muscle activation strategy reduces knee loading.
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
- Medial and/or lateral compartment knee osteoarthritis
- Diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis of at least six months duration
- Ambulatory without aids
- Able to walk for at least 60 minutes
- Typical pain rating of 1-4 on scale of 0-10
- Able to reduce gastrocnemius muscle activation by 10% from baseline
Exclusion criteria
- History of symptomatic arthritis in lower limb joints other than the knees
- Replacement of any lower extremity joint
- Symptoms originating from the patellofemoral joint
- Body mass index equal to or greater than 35
- Nerve or muscle disease associated with walking difficulty
- History of rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or autoimmune disease
- History of lower limb fracture or surgery requiring hospitalization
Where
- Stanford, California
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 Jun 23, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations