Biomechanical Assessment and Neuromuscular Training to Mitigate Risk of Reinjury After ACLR
Laura Thornton1, J Brett Goodloe1, Inga Groseclose1
1Department of Physical Therapy and Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Background:
Reinjury rates following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction remain high, and the cause is often multifactorial. There is growing literature supporting asymmetric biomechanical deficits leading to increased risk of reinjury. Neuromuscular training during postoperative rehabilitation may mitigate risk of reinjury by addressing these biomechanical deficits.
Indications:
Neuromuscular training is supported in the literature to reduce primary ACL injury risk and modify biomechanical risk factors. Incorporating neuromuscular training into postoperative rehabilitation following ACL reconstruction may reduce the risk of reinjury.
Technique Description:
The Landing Error Scoring System, or LESS test, is an assessment tool utilized to detect biomechanical asymmetries following ACL reconstruction. Video analysis allows for observation of subtle biomechanical differences. Neuromuscular training programs help improve these deficits through stepwise gradual and individualized progressions that are specific to each patient's needs and desired athletic return.
Results:
A patient who participates in neuromuscular training as a component of postoperative rehabilitation should demonstrate improvements in their individual biomechanical deficits at the completion of the program described.
Discussion/Conclusion:
Biomechanical assessment following ACL reconstruction, such as the LESS test, can identify deficits that may increase risk of reinjury. Neuromuscular training following ACL reconstruction can address these deficits and potentially mitigate risk of reinjury.
Patient Consent Disclosure Statement:
The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.
