Relationship Between Physical Activity and Clinical Outcomes After ACL Reconstruction

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Individuals with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) often show reduced moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA).
• Self-reported physical activity measures are frequently used in ACLR populations, but their validity is not well-established.
• Understanding the relationship between objective and subjective activity measures is crucial for effective rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between objectively measured MVPA and self-reported physical activity in individuals with ACLR.
• To examine the relationship between objectively measured MVPA and self-reported knee function in the ACLR population.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-one participants with ACLR and 31 matched controls were enrolled.
• Physical activity was objectively measured using accelerometers over seven days.
• Self-reported physical activity and knee function were assessed using the Tegner Activity Scale and Marx Activity Rating Scale.

Main Results:

• No significant correlations were found between objectively measured MVPA and self-reported physical activity in the ACLR group.
• Objectively measured MVPA did not significantly correlate with self-reported knee function among participants with ACLR.
• Correlation coefficients (ρ) ranged from ≤0.31 for activity and ≤0.41 for knee function.

Conclusions:

• Objectively measured physical activity is not significantly associated with self-reported activity or knee function in individuals post-ACLR.
• The findings suggest a potential discrepancy between perceived and actual physical activity levels following ACLR.
• Further research should consider both objective and subjective measures to gain a comprehensive understanding of physical activity engagement in this population.