The GORUN Study: Gradual Onset of RUNning and Knee Joint Health in Novice Runners (NCT07528885) | Clinical Trial Compass
Not Yet RecruitingNot Applicable
The GORUN Study: Gradual Onset of RUNning and Knee Joint Health in Novice Runners
Canada80 participantsStarted 2026-05
Plain-language summary
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating disease affecting millions worldwide. Exercise is a core treatment for knee OA, and is advocated by all clinical guidelines. Running is a common exercise that is accessible and evokes a number of positive physical and psychological benefits. However, the appropriateness of recreational running in the presence of knee OA is unclear.
A growing literature base appears to suggest that running may not be deleterious to the health - especially at the knee joint - of people with knee OA. Our recent research has focused on examining a number of health outcomes relevant to knee OA in older individuals with knee OA, but has been limited to experienced runners. This study will address that limitation by focusing on how novice (new) runners respond to a new running program.
Who can participate
Age range
35 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion criteria (all):
* have been running consistently for no more than six months at time of enrolment, with a cumulative weekly volume of less than 5 kilometres OR have yet to take up recreational running consistently
* are comfortable running and walking on a treadmill for at least 30 minutes
Inclusion criteria (knee osteoarthritis (OA) group):
* have definitive knee OA as diagnosed using x-rays
* report having experienced frequent knee pain over the past 3 months
Inclusion criteria (Control group):
* have no evidence of knee OA based on x-rays
* have had pain-free knees for at least the past 3 months
Exclusion Criteria (all):
* have an inflammatory arthritic condition (e.g. gout or rheumatoid arthritis)
* have a presence of any health condition (other than OA in the knee OA group) affecting normal movement or that precludes engaging in moderate to high impact activities such as running
Additionally, exclusion criteria based on MRI safety:
* cannot safely fit into the MRI scanner
* presence of metallic implants (including pace makers, brain aneurysm clips, stents, cochlear implants, artificial heart valves, and prostheses)
* recent surgery or tattoos within the past 6 weeks
* current or possible pregnancy
* electrical stimulator for nerves or bones
* infusion pumps
* shrapnel or other metallic fragments
* non-removable metallic jewellry
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.