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Frequency-Dependent Effects of Percutaneous Femoral Nerve Stimulation on Quadriceps Strength in Athletes With Patellar Tendinopathy
Sponsor: Hospital Clinic of Barcelona
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 threshold and, for PPNS conditions, under ultrasound guidance. Quadriceps maximal isometric strength is evaluated using an isometric force sensor before and after each intervention. The primary objective is to compare the acute changes in maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) following each stimulation protocol. The study aims to clarify whether different stimulation frequencies can enhance, reduce, or have no effect on quadriceps strength in this athletic population. By identifying frequency-specific neuromodulatory responses, this study may help clinicians and sports practitioners select the most appropriate stimulation parameters to optimize rehabilitation and performance in individuals with patellar tendinopathy.
Official title: Frequency-Dependent Effects of Percutaneous Femoral Nerve Stimulation on Strength in Athletes With Patellar Tendinopathy: a Randomized Controlled Trial
Key Details
Gender
MALE
Age Range
18 Years - 40 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
19
Start Date
2025-09-20
Completion Date
2025-12-15
Last Updated
2025-12-05
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Electrical stimulation
All electrical stimulation procedures are performed under real-time ultrasound guidance to accurately locate the femoral nerve and ensure safe and consistent electrode placement. For the percutaneous interventions (PPNS), a sterile needle electrode is inserted adjacent to the femoral nerve and stimulation is delivered at either high frequency (100 Hz) or low frequency (2 Hz), depending on the study arm. For the transcutaneous intervention (TENS), surface electrodes are positioned over the femoral nerve region using ultrasound guidance to confirm anatomical landmarks and optimize current delivery. In all conditions, stimulation is applied at the maximal tolerated motor threshold to elicit visible quadriceps activation.
Locations (1)
Blanquerna University
Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain