Recommendations for Hamstring Function Recovery After ACL Reconstruction

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) requires optimized functional recovery for improved patient outcomes.
• Hamstring muscle function deficits post-ACLR are linked to osteoarthritis, altered movement, and re-injury.
• Effective rehabilitation strategies are needed to address hamstring deficits, especially with ipsilateral hamstring autografts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss hamstring function deficits following ACLR.
• To outline considerations for restoring hamstring function.
• To align hamstring recovery strategies with the overall ACLR functional rehabilitation process.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of current research on hamstring function after ACLR.
• Analysis of factors influencing hamstring recovery, including strength types and programming.
• Discussion of exercise selection and application for ACLR athletes.

Main Results:

• Significant hamstring function deficits commonly occur after ACLR.
• Restoring maximal, explosive, and multiplanar hamstring strength is essential.
• A periodized resistance training program with appropriate exercise selection is recommended.

Conclusions:

• Addressing hamstring deficits is a critical component of ACLR rehabilitation.
• Evidence-based strategies are necessary to guide the training of hamstrings in ACLR patients.
• This paper provides recommendations for optimizing hamstring recovery post-ACLR to enhance functional outcomes.