The Influence of Limb Dominance on Performance-Based Outcomes After ACL Reconstruction.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Limb dominance (LD) may influence outcomes when using the limb symmetry index (LSI) post-anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR).
• Understanding LD's role can refine patient assessments and rehabilitation strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of limb dominance on performance-based outcomes after ACLR.
• To determine if ACLR on the dominant limb (DL) or non-dominant limb (NDL) affects recovery symmetry.

Main Methods:

• An observational, cross-sectional study involving 279 patients (average age 20.83 years) 7.65 months post-ACLR.
• Assessed LD influence on knee torque, center of pressure (COP) measures, and hop performance.
• LSI variables were categorized as 'Pass' (≥90%) or 'Fail' based on LD.

Main Results:

• A significant association was found between LD and isometric knee extension LSI 'Pass' status (P=0.001).
• Patients with DL ACLR showed greater symmetry in knee extension torque and 6-meter hop performance.
• NDL ACLR patients exhibited more symmetric COP distance, and greater triple-hop distance on the contralateral limb.

Conclusions:

• Limb dominance significantly influences isometric knee LSI post-ACLR, particularly for knee extension strength.
• Tailoring rehabilitation based on limb dominance may enhance recovery precision and return-to-activity timelines.