Clinical Research Directory

Gait Rehabilitation to Treat FastOA

The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of real-time gait biofeedback delivered over a 6-week period on early markers of FastOA and conduct 6-week and 6-month follow-up assessments in anterior cruciate ligament reconstructed patients.

Evaluating XPERIENCE™ Advanced Surgical Irrigation

A prospective, multi-center, double-arm, parallel, interventional, randomized, controlled clinical trial to assess the rate of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) in patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA), total hip arthroplasty (THA) or hip resurfacing (HR) with XPERIENCE™ (XP) Advanced Surgical Irrigation versus dilute Betadine (DB).

Dronabinol After Arthroscopic Surgery

The purpose of the proposed study is to evaluate the efficacy of dronabinol for postoperative pain after arthroscopic surgery of the knee. The investigators hypothesize that dronabinol will relieve pain, reduce opioid consumption and will result in few negative side effects. If this pilot study shows promising results the investigators will expand the trial to include additional arthroscopic surgeries (hip, shoulder) and other types of orthopaedic surgery.

Intra-Operative Adductor Canal Blocks

Adductor canal blocks (ACB) have been recommended in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) to provide better control of post-operative pain, facilitate early ambulation, and reduce length of stay in the hospital. ACB is typically done before surgery by an anesthesiologist, which may increase time per case, cost, and requires the specialized skills of an anesthesiologist trained in regional anesthesia. Recent studies have suggested that surgeons can safely and reliably administer the adductor canal blocks (sACB) during surgery. However, there is currently very limited data on the clinical efficacy of such sACBs, and no studies assessing this technique in the context TKA that are discharged the same day. As such, this randomized control trial (RCT) is being done to compare sACBs to conventional anesthesiologist-performed adductor canal blocks (aACB).

Effectiveness and Safety of Embosphere Microspheres for Embolization of the Geniculate Artery for the Treatment of Pain With Known Moderate to Severe Knee Osteoarthritis

The purpose of this research study is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a permanent embolic (Embosphere Microspheres) for embolization of the geniculate artery for the treatment of moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis.

Effects of Collagen Peptide Supplementation on Connective Tissue Remodeling, Functional Outcomes, and Wound Healing After Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA)

Recruiting will be performed via checking the calendar for scheduled TKA procedures in the \> 8 weeks by clinical staff in the UAMS orthopedic clinic. Clinic staff will look for basic inclusion/exclusion criteria in the EMR for those patients. Clinic staff will either contact directly or send contact information to the PI of this study to contact for recruitment purposes. During the initial phone call, study staff will review inclusion/exclusion criteria to verify eligibility and will discuss study specifics and send a link to the current informed consent form located on the UAMS REDCap server. If the subject wishes to enroll, they will do so via electronic consent through REDCap. REDCap will notify study staff that the consent was signed, then study staff will schedule initial baseline study visit. Visit 1 and Visit 2 will take place at the RIOA at week 0 and week 24, respectively. Participants will report having fasted overnight, and having abstained from alcohol for 24 hours, vigorous exercise for 24 hours, and caffeine for 12 hours. A blood sample will be drawn upon arrival, followed by a DXA scan to measured bone mineral density (BMD) in both hips and lumbar spine, and for body composition, using CTRAL equipment. Participants will also undergo a body water assessment using BIA to determine deuterium dose. Bilateral handgrip strength will be measured via Dynamometer. Participants will fill out a 3-Day food log, physical activity questionnaire, pain scale, KOOS, VR-12, and the POMS. Participants will be given an 8-week supply of their respective treatment supplement, with instructions and a compliance log (to be filled out monthly). Participants will also be given their dose of deuterium oxide (D2O) to be ingested according to instruction at week 2\&3, prior to TKA (week 4). Tissue samples for ACL, bone fragments, and synovial fluid will be collected by the PI during TKA surgery. All other assessments will be taken during clinical visits with the participant's physical therapists and their orthopedic doctors. The PI will attend some of these visits to assess wound healing, administer handgrip strength assessment, and to replenish participant treatment supply.

Anatomical Axis on X-Ray and Its Relationship With Pain and Kinesiophobia in Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is a common joint disease that causes pain, stiffness, and limitations in daily activities, especially in older adults. Changes in the alignment of the lower limb, called the anatomical axis, can increase the mechanical load on the knee joint and may affect pain and mobility. This study aims to investigate the relationship between the anatomical axis measured on knee X-rays and patients' pain levels, functional status, quality of life, and fear of movement (kinesiophobia). This is a single-center, observational, cross-sectional study. Adult patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis who have a standard knee X-ray taken within the last 6 months and who volunteer to participate will be included. Pain will be measured with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), functional status with the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), quality of life with the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), and kinesiophobia with the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK). The femoro-tibial angle and joint space width will be measured on X-rays by two independent observers. By examining the relationship between radiographic alignment and clinical findings, this study may provide new insights into the comprehensive evaluation of knee osteoarthritis and help guide treatment planning for patients.

Genicular Artery Embolization for Knee Osteoarthritis

Patients will be asked to take part in this research study because they have mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis (OA) and were referred clinically for a procedure called Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE). Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time. The symptoms of OA include pain or aching, stiffness, decreased range of motion, and swelling. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of GAE for the treatment of knee pain attributed to OA. Research participants will be in this research study for about 3 years. The study includes a screening visit, GAE procedure, and six follow-up visits. At the screening visit, a review of their medical history, demographics, and medications will be collected; physical examination will be completed; knee x-ray will be done; and two questionnaires on your knee pain will be administered. The GAE procedure will involve receiving sedation or medication to help them relax, lidocaine injected under the skin in the area of the body where catheters will be inserted into one of your arteries and then using x-ray, a catheter will be directed to the arteries supplying the lining of the knee. Then tiny microspheres will be injected into the artery to decrease the blood supply to this knee joint tissue. The follow-up visits up to 12 months will include a focused physical examination of the treated knee, documentation of medications, and two questionnaires will be administered. The follow-up visits at year 2 and 3 will include documentation of medications and any new treatments for OA as well as completion of two questionnaires. Follow-up visits maybe conducted in clinic or remotely.

Innovations in Genicular Outcomes Registry

The registry will capture prospective data on patients receiving pain management for chronic pain due to knee osteoarthritis (OA) or pain optimization for knee arthroplasty due to knee OA. The OA pain therapies may include cryo nerve block, radiofrequency ablation (RFA), intra-articular (IA) corticosteroids, viscosupplementation, opioids, and others (e.g., non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs \[NSAIDs\]).

PRP Effectiveness in Knee Osteoarthritis

The aim of our study is to determine the effects of intra-articular Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) prepared with two different techniques on pain intensity, functional status, quality of life, functional balance and femoral cartilage thickness in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

SII Levels Following iPACK Block With Adductor Canal Block in Knee Arthroplasty

This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effect of ultrasound-guided iPACK block with Adductor Canal Block (ACB) on the Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII) in elderly patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty under spinal anesthesia. SII, calculated as platelet × neutrophil / lymphocyte count, is used as a composite marker of perioperative inflammatory and immune response. The study investigates whether iPACK block with ACB attenuates the systemic inflammatory reaction to surgical trauma compared to sham block.

Oral vs Intravenous Dexamethasone in Total Knee Arthroplasty

This prospective observational cohort study aims to evaluate the association between perioperative dexamethasone administration and early postoperative recovery following primary total knee arthroplasty. In routine clinical practice, dexamethasone may be administered orally, intravenously, or not administered, depending on the surgeon's established perioperative protocol. The primary objective is to assess early postoperative recovery in terms of pain intensity, functional mobility, and knee joint range of motion. Secondary objectives include evaluation of inflammatory response, postoperative metabolic changes, opioid requirement, and the severity of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Group allocation is non-randomized and determined solely by the standard perioperative management approach routinely applied by the surgeon selected by the patient. No additional interventions are introduced for research purposes. All outcomes are assessed prospectively during the early postoperative period.

To Compare the Effect of Closed Kinetic Chain and Isometric Exercises in Reducing Pain and Improving Functional Disability in Patients With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Associated With Knee Osteoarthritis

Investigator study aims to compare the benefits of isometric exercise and closed kinetic chain exercises in strengthening programs to lessen pain along with enhance functionality in patients with PFP that are being associated with osteoarthritis and the assessment of PFP pertains to its recognition and the determination of significant therapeutic techniques. 70 Participants from the department of physiotherapy, Civil Hospital Karachi CHK and Dow University of Health Science (DIPMR) will be randomly assigned into two groups, an experimental group receiving closed kinetic chain exercise, and a control group receiving isometric exercises. The therapy will last four weeks, consisting of twelfth sessions. There will be 35 to 40 minutes in each session, Patients will be evaluated on primary outcome measure, pain intensity and functional limitation using various scales, including the numerical pain rating scale (NPRS) and Kujala/anterior knee pain scale (AKPS)

Effects of a Machine Learning-based Lower Limb Exercise Training System for Knee Pain

The goal of the study is to confirm the idea of AI-powered Technological Surrogate Physiotherapist (TSP), by demonstrating its effectiveness and value as a new technology-based contribution to OA healthcare. Participants will be randomized to one of two groups: (1) the conventional PT group receiving the exercise program delivered through in-person sessions; or (2) the AI-guided group following the program through the TSP after an initial PT session. All individuals will take part in the study for 12 weeks, and data will be collected at baseline and 12 weeks after randomization.

Efficacy of Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Therapeutic Exercise in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is a common, chronic degenerative condition that causes pain, functional limitations, and reduced quality of life, especially in adults older than 50 years. Although clinical practice guidelines recommend therapeutic exercise and physical therapy as the first-line treatment, many patients do not receive or adhere to the recommended programs. Digital health tools may help expand access and improve adherence by supporting home-based exercise. This study is a parallel-group, randomized controlled clinical trial designed to evaluate the effectiveness of an artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted therapeutic exercise program delivered through a web-based app compared with a conventional home exercise program provided on paper in adults with knee osteoarthritis. The primary goal is to determine whether the AI-assisted program produces greater improvements in pain and knee-related function. Secondary goals include assessing changes in health-related quality of life and patient-perceived overall improvement, and comparing implementation outcomes like adherence, usability, satisfaction, self-efficacy for exercise, and use of the prescribed exercise resource (paper vs web platform). Participants will be recruited from the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre and randomly assigned to either the AI-assisted exercise group or the conventional exercise group. The AI-assisted web app will adjust exercise dose and progression based on participant-reported pain and perceived exertion, using decision rules informed by clinical practice guidelines and high-quality research evidence. Both groups will complete a 6-week home-based exercise program and will also attend weekly in-person group sessions that will be held separately by study arm (experimental and control groups will not mix) to reduce cross-contamination and support masking procedures. These sessions will be used to address questions, reinforce the protocol, and monitor for adverse events. Clinical outcomes will include pain intensity (visual analog scale), knee-related disability and function (WOMAC), health-related quality of life (EQ-5D), and patient global rating of change (GROC). Physical performance outcomes (30-second Chair Stand Test and Stair Climb Test) will be assessed at baseline and 1 week after completion of the 6-week intervention. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, one week after the 6-week intervention, and at 3 and 6 months after the intervention, with the exception of physical performance outcomes, which will be assessed at baseline and 1 week post-intervention.

Effect of iPACK and BiFeS Blocks on Quality of Recovery After Total Knee Arthroplasty

This prospective, randomized, double-blind clinical trial aims to compare the effects of two different posterior knee analgesia techniques-iPACK block (Interspace Between the Popliteal Artery and the Capsule of the posterior Knee) and the Biceps Femoris Short Head (BiFeS) block-when combined with an adductor canal block (ACB) in patients undergoing elective unilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Effective postoperative analgesia is essential for early mobilization, enhanced recovery, and patient satisfaction after TKA. Although ACB provides good anterior knee analgesia while preserving quadriceps strength, additional posterior knee analgesia is often required. The iPACK block is a commonly used technique that targets the posterior knee capsule, whereas the newer BiFeS block aims to provide more selective posterolateral sensory blockade with potentially reduced risk of motor involvement. However, comparative clinical data between these two techniques are limited. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the difference between the iPACK and BiFeS blocks in terms of Quality of Recovery-15 (QoR-15) scores at 24 hours postoperatively. Secondary objectives include comparisons of postoperative pain scores, opioid consumption, time to first analgesic request, quadriceps and anterior tibialis muscle strength, functional test performance, time to mobilization, active range of motion, and the incidence of adverse events. A total of 74 adult patients scheduled for elective unilateral TKA under spinal anesthesia will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio into two groups: ACB + iPACK block or ACB + BiFeS block. All blocks will be performed under ultrasound guidance by an experienced anesthesiologist. Outcome assessments will be conducted by blinded investigators. The study aims to provide high-quality clinical evidence regarding the effectiveness of the BiFeS block compared to the widely used iPACK technique.

Subchondroplasty® Knee RCT

This is a multi-center, prospective, single-blinded, two-arm study, randomized to include approximately 134 subjects treated with Subchondroplasty (SCP) + Arthroscopy and 67 subjects with arthroscopy alone. The primary objective of this study is to demonstrate superiority of Subchondroplasty with arthroscopy compared to arthroscopy alone for treatment of Bone Marrow Lesions (BMLs) in the knee.

Is It Possible to Obtain Reliable MPTA and LDFA Values Using Imageless Navigation in Total Knee Arthroplasty? Comparison Between Preoperative CT Scan Measurements and Intraoperative Bone Morphing Before and After Articular Cartilage Removal

Title: Evaluation of Image-less Navigation Accuracy in Total Knee Arthroplasty (CARNAVAL) Summary: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the accuracy of an imageless navigation system in measuring key anatomical angles (MPTA and LDFA) during Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA). While preoperative CT scans are currently the gold standard for bone planning, imageless navigation uses a "bone morphing" technique during surgery to create a digital model of the knee. The study aims to determine if the measurements obtained via bone morphing, both before and after cartilage removal, are consistent with the measurements obtained from preoperative CT scans. The investigators seek to confirm if imageless navigation can provide reliable anatomical data, potentially reducing the need for preoperative radiation and costs associated with CT imaging.

Creation of a Prospective Data Collecting Registry for Genicular Artery Embolization for Arthritis

The goal of this study is to create a prospective registry (\<100 patients) to show the effectiveness of the genicular artery embolization procedure overtime in reducing bilateral or unilateral osteoarthritic knee pain as measured by Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score.

ROAM OA: Functional and Patient Reported Outcomes Wearing a Knee Brace for Unicompartmental OA

The aim of this study is to conduct a comparative evaluation of the ROAM OA Single Upright Brace and the Ossur Unloader One Knee Brace in subjects with medial compartment osteoarthritis. The focus is on comparing the immediate and short-term biomechanical effects of these braces on knee adduction moments and spatiotemporal gait parameters, as well as assessing the long-term efficacy of the ROAM OA brace in improving pain and functional outcomes for individuals with osteoarthritis.

Phonophoresis With Bee Venom: Evaluating Its Efficacy in Managing Pain and Enhancing Mobility in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients

Brief Summary: This single-blind, randomized controlled trial will investigate the efficacy of bee venom phonophoresis in managing pain and improving mobility in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Thirty adults aged 40-75 years with clinically and radiographically confirmed knee osteoarthritis will be randomly assigned to receive either bee venom phonophoresis or placebo phonophoresis with a neutral gel. Ultrasound parameters will be standardized for all participants. Primary outcomes are pain reduction, measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and functional mobility, assessed by the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. The secondary outcome is walking endurance, measured by the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT). Assessments will be conducted at baseline and post-intervention. The study is designed to determine whether bee venom phonophoresis offers greater clinical benefit compared to placebo phonophoresis, potentially providing a non-invasive, adjunctive treatment option for knee osteoarthritis. Ethical approval has been obtained from the Faculty of Physical Therapy, Sinai University, and all participants will provide written informed consent.

Assessing the Association Between WBCT PFJ Morphological Metrics and Knee Symptoms

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.

Therapeutic Effect of Oral Hyaluronic Acid on Knee Osteoarthritis

The goal of this clinical trial is to investigate the effect of oral hyaluronate in patients with knee osteoarthritis. The main question it aims to answer is: the therapeutic effect in the combined treatment of oral nutritional supplement based on hyaluronic acid with hyaluronic acid intra-articular Injection on symptomatic knee osteoarthritis. Researchers will compare it to those who receive only hyaluronic acid injection to see if the combined treatment is better. Participants will receive a total of three months of oral hyaluronate or placebo agents.

Implementing a Group Physical Therapy Program for Veterans (GroupPT): Function QUERI 3.0

Implementing Group Physical Therapy for Veterans with Knee Osteoarthritis (Group PT): Function QUERI 3.0 aims to compare two implementation approaches for implementing Group PT in 20 VA facilities using a type III effectiveness-implementation hybrid study framework and parallel cluster randomized trial (CRT) design.