Effectiveness of a Session of Analgesic Electrostimulation (Invasive and Non-invasive) Applied to the Quadriceps Muscle in Patients After Knee Surgery.

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is one of the most prevalent injuries in the musculoskeletal system. Consequently, its surgical reconstruction is among the most commonly performed procedures in current clinical practice. The aim of this clinical trial is to investigate if the application of a single session of electrical currents to the quadriceps muscle can reduce pain in individuals who have undergone ACL surgery. Additionally, the trial will assess whether this intervention increases the pressure pain threshold, mobility, strength and functionality of the operated knee, as well as improving the participant's quality of life. Effusion and edema of the operated knee will also be measured. Participants in this clinical trial will be randomly assigned to three study groups: one control group and two experimental groups. All participants will undergo a conventional physiotherapy program for knee rehabilitation. This program includes manual therapy with a physiotherapist and exercises aimed at strengthening the CORE, hip and knee muscles. Participants in the first experimental group will receive an additional session of superficial (non-invasive) electrical currents applied to the quadriceps muscle of the operated knee. Participants in the second experimental group will receive an additional session of invasive electrical currents applied to the quadriceps muscle of the operated knee. Each patient will be assessed four times: before the intervention, immediately after the intervention, and 1 and 7 days post-intervention. Functionality of the operated knee and quality of life will only be assessed before the intervention and 7 days post-intervention using self-reported scales.