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Early Weight-Bearing Rehabilitation Protocol After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
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Hamstring weakness after surgery for anterior cruciate injury
The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy
|January 1, 1986
Summary
Surgery and immobilization significantly decrease hamstring strength by 43%. Targeted hamstring exercises during immobilization may help preserve strength in patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) insufficiency often requires surgical correction.
- Post-surgical immobilization is a common practice to allow healing.
- Hamstring strength is crucial for knee stability and function, particularly in ACL-injured knees.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the impact of surgery and subsequent immobilization on isometric hamstring strength.
- To assess the percentage decrease in hamstring torque following ACL surgery and a 6-week casting period.
Main Methods:
- Isometric hamstring torque was measured in 15 male volunteers before ACL surgery.
- Subjects were immobilized in casts for 6 weeks post-surgery without specific hamstring exercises.
- Post-immobilization hamstring torque was measured immediately after cast removal and compared to preoperative values.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant decrease of 43% in isometric hamstring torque was observed post-immobilization (p < 0.001).
- This substantial strength loss highlights the detrimental effects of immobilization on hamstring muscle function.
Conclusions:
- Immobilization following ACL surgery leads to significant hamstring strength deficits.
- Implementing specific hamstring exercises during the immobilization period may mitigate strength loss and aid recovery.
- Preserving hamstring strength is vital for optimal outcomes in ACL reconstruction patients.
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