Deep oscillation therapy enhances early rehabilitation after ACL reconstruction: a randomized controlled trial

This study investigated the effectiveness of deep oscillation therapy on early rehabilitation outcomes and inflammatory markers in 60 patients (32.7 ± 6.5 years) following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

A randomized controlled study was undertaken.

Patients were randomly allocated into a deep oscillation therapy group (n = 30) receiving a physiotherapy protocol plus deep oscillation therapy, and a control group (n = 30) receiving a physiotherapy protocol alone. Outcomes assessed over 4 weeks included pain (algesimeter), knee circumference (swelling), active range of motion for flexion and extension (goniometer), and biomarkers: C-reactive protein (inflammation) and D-dimer (thromboembolic risk) blood tests.

Results showed significantly (p < 0.01) higher pressure pain threshold (i.e., increased tolerance of pressure-evoked pain), swelling reduction, and improved knee flexion and extension range of motion in the deep oscillation therapy compared with the control group after 2 and 4 weeks. The deep oscillation therapy achieved full extension by week four. Deep oscillation therapy also led to a more dynamic and pronounced decrease in C--reactive protein and D-dimer levels in the deep oscillation therapy compared with the control group (p < 0.01), with the deep oscillation therapy exhibiting significantly lower levels after 2 and 4 weeks. Correlations were observed in the deep oscillation therapy between reduced inflammatory markers and improved mobility and swelling.

These findings suggest that deep oscillation therapy can significantly enhance early rehabilitation outcomes and reduce inflammation in patients after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.