Smaller Change in Psychological Readiness to Return to Sport Is Associated With Second Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Among Younger Patients

From Fear to Resilience: A Scoping Review of Psychological Components in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rehabilitation

CONTEXT

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, prevalent in athletic contexts have profound physical and psychological impacts. Despite extensive research on the physiological aspects of ACL recovery, the psychological dimensions of this process have gained increased attention. This scoping review delves into the intricate landscape of psychological factors influencing ACL rehabilitation.

DESIGN

Scoping review.

METHODS

A literature search across multiple databases was conducted to identify relevant published studies that provide insight into the psychological aspects of ACL recovery. This search spanned various study designs, enabling a nuanced understanding of the psychological intricacies surrounding ACL recovery. Overall, a total of 1830 unique articles were screened, of which 66 were included in this review. Our findings are further contextualized through alignment with insights from prior reviews on similar themes. Through a comprehensive analysis of diverse literature, we explore 3 key themes: psychological challenges, current rehabilitation programs, and the integration of psychological support.

RESULTS

Psychological challenges emerged as a pervasive aspect of ACL rehabilitation, encompassing fear, anxiety, motivation, and depression. The nuanced emotional responses, particularly the fear of reinjury, impact treatment adherence and overall well-being. Contemporary rehabilitation programs revealed inconsistencies in incorporating psychological support, emphasizing the need for standardized, multidisciplinary approaches. The alignment with prior reviews in the literature reinforced the importance of psychological traits, such as knee self-efficacy, in predicting positive outcomes.

CONCLUSION

This scoping review provides a comprehensive overview of psychological factors within ACL rehabilitation, highlighting the importance of tailored interventions and standardized approaches. The integration of multidisciplinary expertise emerges as crucial for optimizing patient outcomes. Our findings not only contribute to a nuanced understanding of psychological nuances in ACL rehabilitation but also offer valuable implications for clinical practice and policy development.

Effect of Time and Sex on Post-Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Psychological Patient-Reported Outcome Measure Scores

CONTEXT

Low scores on psychological patient-reported outcomes measures, including the Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Return to Sport After Injury (ACL-RSI) and Injury-Psychological Readiness to Return to Sport (I-PRRS), after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) have been associated with a maladaptive psychological response to injury and poor prognosis.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of time post-ACLR and sex on ACL-RSI and I-PRRS scores and generate normative reference curves.

DESIGN

Case series.

SETTING

Outpatient sports medicine and orthopaedic clinic.

PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS

A total of 507 patients (age at ACLR, 17.9 ± 3.0 years) who had undergone primary ACLR and completed ACL-RSI or I-PRRS assessments ≥1 times (n = 796) between 0 and 1 year post-ACLR.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

An honest broker provided anonymous data from our institution's knee-injury clinical database. Generalized additive models for location, scale, and shape and generalized least-squares analyses were used to assess the effect of time post-ACLR and sex on ACL-RSI and I-PRRS scores.

RESULTS

The ACL-RSI and I-PRRS scores increased over time post-ACLR. Males had higher scores than females until approximately 5 months post-ACLR, with scores converging thereafter.

CONCLUSIONS

Males reported higher ACL-RSI and I-PRRS scores than females in the initial stages of rehabilitation, but scores converged between sexes at times associated with return to play post-ACLR. Normative reference curves can be used to objectively appraise ACL-RSI and I-PRRS scores at any time post-ACLR. This may lead to timely recognition of patients with a maladaptive psychological response to injury and a higher likelihood of a poor prognosis, optimizing ACLR outcomes.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Return to Sport after Injury Scale (ACL-RSI) Scores over Time After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Psychological readiness is an important consideration for athletes and clinicians when making return to sport decisions following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). To improve our understanding of the extent of deficits in psychological readiness, a systematic review is necessary.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate psychological readiness (measured via the Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Return to Sport after Injury scale (ACL-RSI)) over time after ACL tear and understand if time between injury and surgery, age, and sex are associated with ACL-RSI scores.

METHODS

Seven databases were searched from the earliest date available to March 22, 2022. Articles reporting ACL-RSI scores after ACL tear were included. Risk of bias was assessed using the ROBINS-I, RoB-2, and RoBANS tools based on the study design. Evidence certainty was assessed for each analysis. Random-effects meta-analyses pooled ACL-RSI scores, stratified by time post-injury and based on treatment approach (i.e., early ACLR, delayed ACLR, and unclear approach).

RESULTS

A total of 83 studies were included in this review (78% high risk of bias). Evidence certainty was 'weak' or 'limited' for all analyses. Overall, ACL-RSI scores were higher at 3 to 6 months post-ACLR (mean = 61.5 [95% confidence interval (CI) 58.6, 64.4], I2 = 94%) compared to pre-ACLR (mean = 44.4 [95% CI 38.2, 50.7], I2 = 98%), remained relatively stable, until they reached the highest point 2 to 5 years after ACLR (mean = 70.7 [95% CI 63.0, 78.5], I2 = 98%). Meta-regression suggests shorter time from injury to surgery, male sex, and older age were associated with higher ACL-RSI scores only 3 to 6 months post-ACLR (heterogeneity explained R2 = 47.6%), and this reduced 1-2 years after ACLR (heterogeneity explained R2 = 27.0%).

CONCLUSION

Psychological readiness to return to sport appears to improve early after ACL injury, with little subsequent improvement until ≥ 2-years after ACLR. Longer time from injury to surgery, female sex and older age might be negatively related to ACL-RSI scores 12-24 months after ACLR. Due to the weak evidence quality rating and the considerable importance of psychological readiness for long-term outcomes after ACL injury, there is an urgent need for well-designed studies that maximize internal validity and identify additional prognostic factors for psychological readiness at times critical for return to sport decisions.

REGISTRATION

Open Science Framework (OSF), https://osf.io/2tezs/ .

Can a Psychologic Profile Predict Successful Return to Full Duty After a Musculoskeletal Injury?

BACKGROUND

Psychologic variables have been shown to have a strong relationship with recovery from injury and return to work or sports. The extent to which psychologic variables predict successful return to work in military settings is unknown.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

In a population of active duty soldiers, (1) can a psychologic profile determine the risk of injury after return to full duty? (2) Do psychologic profiles differ between soldiers sustaining injuries in the spine (thoracic or lumbar) and those with injuries to the lower extremities?

METHODS

Psychologic variables were assessed in soldiers returning to full, unrestricted duty after a recent musculoskeletal injury. Most of these were noncombat injuries from work-related physical activity. Between February 2016 and September 2017, 480 service members who were cleared to return to duty after musculoskeletal injuries (excluding those with high-velocity collisions, pregnancy, or amputation) were enrolled in a study that tracked subsequent injuries over the following year. Of those, we considered individuals with complete 12-month follow-up data as potentially eligible for analysis. Based on that, approximately 2% (8 of 480) were excluded because they did not complete baseline surveys, approximately 2% (11 of 480) were separated from the military during the follow-up period and had incomplete injury data, 1% (3 of 480) were excluded for not serving in the Army branch of the military, and approximately 2% (8 of 480) were excluded because they were not cleared to return to full duty. This resulted in 450 soldiers analyzed. Individuals were 86% (385 of 450) men; 74% (331 of 450) had lower extremity injuries and 26% (119 of 450) had spinal injuries, including soft tissue aches and pains (for example, strains and sprains), fractures, and disc herniations. Time-loss injury within 1 year was the primary outcome. While creating and validating a new prediction model using only psychological variables, 19 variables were assessed for nonlinearity, further factor selection was performed through elastic net, and models were internally validated through 2000 bootstrap iterations. Performance was deciphered through calibration, discrimination (area under the curve [AUC]), R 2 , and calibration in the large. Calibration assesses predicted versus actual risk by plotting the x and y intersection of these values; the more similar predicted risk values are to actual ones, the closer the slope of the line formed by the intersection points of all subjects is to equaling "1" (optimal calibration). Likewise, perfect discrimination (predicted injured versus actual injured) presents as an AUC of 1. Perfect calibration in the large would equal 0 because it represents the average predicted risk versus the actual outcome rate. Sensitivity analyses stratified groups by prior injury region (thoracic or lumbar spine and lower extremity) as well as the severity of injury by days of limited duty (moderate [7-27 days] and severe [28 + days]).

RESULTS

A model comprising primarily psychologic variables including depression, anxiety, kinesiophobia, fear avoidance beliefs, and mood did not adequately determine the risk of subsequent injury. The derived logistic prediction model had 18 variables: R 2 = 0.03, calibration = 0.63 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.30 to 0.97), AUC = 0.62 (95% CI 0.52 to 0.72), and calibration in the large = -0.17. Baseline psychologic profiles between body regions differed only for depression severity (mean difference 1 [95% CI 0 to 1]; p = 0.04), with greater mean scores for spine injuries than for lower extremity injuries. Performance was poor for those with prior spine injuries compared with those with lower extremity injuries (AUC 0.50 [95% CI 0.42 to 0.58] and 0.63 [95% CI 0.57 to 0.69], respectively) and moderate versus severe injury during the 1-year follow-up (AUC 0.61 [95% CI 0.51 to 0.71] versus 0.64 [95% CI 0.64 to 0.74], respectively).

CONCLUSION

The psychologically based model poorly predicted subsequent injury. This study does not minimize the value of assessing the psychologic profiles of injured athletes, but rather suggests that models looking to identify injury risk should consider a multifactorial approach that also includes other nonpsychologic factors such as injury history. Future studies should refine the most important psychologic constructs that can add the most value and precision to multifactorial models aimed at identifying the risk of injury.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, prognostic study.

An examination of changes in psychological status across four phases of injury recovery and return to sport: A prospective weekly study of competitive athletes from acute care to return to sport

While ample research has shown that sport injuries are associated with poor psychological status, scant attention has been given to changes in injured athletes' psychological status over the full course of recovery and return to sport. The aim of the present study was to prospectively investigate potential changes in injured athletes' psychological status across four phases of recovery and return to sport. A total of 38 severely injured adult competitive athletes (58% female; mean age 24.1 ± 7.18 years) participated in this prospective weekly investigation (n = 319 observations). Athletes' were asked to indicate their current phase of recovery or return to sport (acute care, rehabilitation, adapted training, or full return to sport) after which they responded to visual analog scales assessing post-injury psychological status, including: perceived pain (frequency and intensity), emotions (positive and negative), anxiety (cognitive and physiological), motivation, self-efficacy, and satisfaction. During the acute care phase, participants showed higher scores of perceived pain, and physiological anxiety compared to the other phases. During the adapted training phase, amotivation was higher than in the acute care phase, and self-efficacy was lower than in other phases. At full return to sport, athletes showed less perceived pain, cognitive anxiety, and more satisfaction than during other phases. The present study provides a deeper prospective understanding of changes in athlete's psychological status over the course of injury recovery and return to sport and highlight the importance of monitoring psychological status.

Association Between Psychological Readiness to Return to Sports at 3 Months Postoperatively and Risk of Second ACL Injury

Background

Psychological readiness to return to sports (RTS) has been associated with second anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. However, this relationship is controversial because covariates such as anatomic and knee function characteristics have not been adequately considered.

Purpose/Hypothesis

To investigate whether psychological readiness in the early postoperative period can predict the occurrence of a second ACL injury within 24 months after primary ACL reconstruction (ACLR) using propensity score analysis. It was hypothesized that patients with high ACL-RSI after injury (ACL-RSI) scores at 3 months postoperatively would have a second ACL injury within the projected postoperative period.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

Included were 169 patients who underwent primary ACLR using hamstring tendon autografts between November 2017 and July 2021 and also underwent knee functional assessments at 3 months postoperatively. The ACL-RSI scale was used to assess psychological readiness for RTS. A second ACL injury was defined if ipsilateral or contralateral ACL injury was confirmed by examination within 24 months postoperatively. Based on a previous study showing that 65 was the highest cutoff value for the ACL-RSI score for RTS, we classified patients into 2 groups: those with high ACL-RSI scores (≥65; group H) and those with low ACL-RSI scores (<65; group L). We generated 1-to-1 matched pairs using propensity score analysis and used log-rank testing to compare the rate of second ACL injury between the 2 groups.

Results

More patients returned to any sports activities within 12 months in group H than in group L (90% vs 73%; P = .03). A second ACL injury within 24 months postoperatively was identified in 7% of patients (13/169). The rate of second ACL injury was significantly higher in group H than in group L (17.6% vs 3.4%; P = .001). In 43 matched pairs extracted using propensity scoring, the rate of second ACL injury was also higher in group H than in group L (18.6% vs 4.7%; P = .04).

Conclusion

Patients with a higher ACL-RSI score at 3 months exhibited a significantly higher incidence of second ACL injury within 24 months after primary ACLR.

Impacts of the Early COVID-19 Pandemic on Depressive Symptoms and Mental Health Among Student-Athletes

Objective

Social distancing protocols due to the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in premature ending of athletic seasons and cancellation of upcoming seasons, placing significant stress on young athletes. Inability to play or forced early retirement has significant consequences on athlete's mental health, as demonstrated by an extensive body of injury literature. We hypothesize that premature suspension and cancellation of athletic events due to the COVID-19 pandemic leads to higher incidence of depressive symptoms among high-school and collegiate athletes. Further, athletes who strongly derive their sense of self-worth centered around athletics would have higher rates of depressive symptoms.

Methods

High school and collegiate athletes were evaluated for depressive symptoms, emotional health and athletic identity measures through validated assessment instruments from May 2020 through July 2020. The Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Depression Computer Adaptive Test (PROMIS-10 Depression CAT), Veterans RAND-12 (VR-12), which comprises both a physical and mental health component, and Athletic Identity Measurement Scale (AIMS) were utilized.

Results

Mental health assessments were completed by 515 athletes (52.4% male, 47.6% female; .84.5% collegiate, 15.5% high school). Female athletes scored significantly worse than males on VR-12 mental health assessments, as well as PROMIS-10 Depression scores; however, males scored significantly lower than females on VR-12 physical health assessments, irrespective of education level. Athletes who had strong associations with athletics as central to their personal identity exhibited worse psychologic impact on VR-12 mental health and PROMIS-10 Depression measures and female athletes in this cohort reported greater depressive symptoms than males.

Conclusion

Social distancing protocols due to the COVID-19 pandemic have limited athlete's ability to participate in sports at the training and competition level. Higher rates of depressive symptoms in high school and college athletes have resulted among female athletes and those who identify strongly as an athlete.

The Influence of Strength and Sport Exposure on Psychological Readiness After ACL Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Among young athletes returning to sport after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), the extent to which psychological readiness is influenced by factors beyond the psychological domain is largely unknown.

HYPOTHESIS

Young athletes with recent sport exposure and higher quadriceps strength will demonstrate higher psychological readiness within 8 weeks of medical clearance to return to sport (RTS) after ACLR.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 3.

METHODS

A total of 38 young athletes after primary ACLR completed testing within 8 weeks of medical clearance to RTS. All participants completed isometric knee extension strength testing, in addition to the ACL Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI) questionnaire. Athletes who participated in sport between time of medical clearance to RTS and date of study enrollment were categorized as SPORT-YES. Those who had not yet participated in sports were categorized as SPORT-NO. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to determine differences in ACL-RSI scores based on quadriceps strength and sport exposure status, while adjusting for age and sex.

RESULTS

Of the 38 participants, 20 (52.6%) were categorized as SPORT-YES. The regression model estimating overall ACL-RSI score (P < 0.01, adjusted R2 = 0.389) included significant independent contributions from age, sex, and sport exposure variables (age: P = 0.01, β [95% CI] = -2.01 [-3.54, -0.48]; sex (male): P = 0.02, β [95% CI] = 12.50 [2.36, 22.64]; strength: P = 0.51, β [95% CI] = -2.47 [-10.07,5.13]; sport exposure: P < 0.01, β [95% CI] = 12.89 [3.58, 22.19]).

CONCLUSION

In partial accordance with our hypothesis, recent sport exposure was significantly associated with higher ACL-RSI scores among young athletes in the weeks after medical clearance to RTS after ACLR, while quadriceps strength was not.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Future prospective work is needed to determine the existence and direction of causal relationships between exposure to sport environment and psychological readiness among young athletes after ACLR.

The Influence of Psychosocial Factors on Patients Undergoing Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

CONTEXT

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries greatly impact patients in terms of future performance, reduced physical activity and athletic participation, and overall economic burden. Decades of research have investigated how to improve ACL reconstruction (ACLR) outcomes. Recently, there has been growing interest to understand the effects of psychosocial factors on patient outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

Clinical review.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A search of the PubMed database was performed in March 2023. Articles were reviewed by at least 2 authors to determine relevance. We highlighted publications of the past 5 years while incorporating previous pertinent studies.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 5.

RESULTS

There is no standardization of psychosocial factors regarding ACLR. As such, there is a lack of consensus regarding which psychosocial measures to use and when. There is a need for clarification of the complex relationship between psychosocial factors and physical function. Despite this, psychosocial factors have the potential to help predict patients who are more likely to return to sport: (1) desire/motivation to return; (2) lower levels of kinesiophobia; (3) higher levels of self-efficacy, confidence, and subjective knee function; (4) risk acceptance; and (5) social support. However, there are no standardized interventions to improve psychosocial factors after ACLR.

CONCLUSION

Psychosocial factors affect outcomes after ACLR. However, the interplay between psychosocial factors and physical function is complex. There is emerging evidence that testing and interventions may improve ACLR outcomes. There is a lack of standardized interventions to determine or improve psychosocial factors after ACLR. Further research is needed to identify psychosocial factors and to develop standardized interventions for clinicians to implement to improve clinical outcomes.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Plus Lateral Extra-articular Tenodesis Has a Similar Return-to-Sport Rate to Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Alone but a Lower Failure Rate

PURPOSE

To determine whether the addition of lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET) to anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) would improve return-to-sport (RTS) rates in young, active patients who play high-risk sports.

METHODS

This multicenter randomized controlled trial compared standard hamstring tendon ACLR with combined ACLR and LET using a strip of the iliotibial band (modified Lemaire technique). Patients aged 25 years or younger with an anterior cruciate ligament-deficient knee were included. Patients also had to meet 2 of the following criteria: (1) pivot-shift grade 2 or greater, (2) participation in a high-risk or pivoting sport, and (3) generalized ligamentous laxity. Time to return and level of RTS were determined via administration of a questionnaire at 24 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

We randomized 618 patients in this study, 553 of whom played high-risk sports preoperatively. The proportion of patients who did not RTS was similar between the ACLR (11%) and ACLR-LET (14%) groups; however, the graft rupture rate was significantly different (11.2% in ACLR group vs 4.1% in ACLR-LET group, P = .004). The most cited reason for no RTS was lack of confidence and/or fear of reinjury. A stable knee was associated with nearly 2 times greater odds of returning to a high-level high-risk sport postoperatively (odds ratio, 1.92; 95% confidence interval, 1.11-3.35; P = .02). There were no significant differences in patient-reported functional outcomes or hop test results between groups (P > .05). Patients who returned to high-risk sports had better hamstring symmetry than those who did not RTS (P = .001).

CONCLUSIONS

At 24 months postoperatively, patients who underwent ACLR plus LET had a similar RTS rate to those who underwent ACLR alone. Although the subgroup analysis did not show a statistically significant increase in RTS with the addition of LET, on returning, the addition of LET kept subjects playing longer by reducing graft failure rates.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I, randomized controlled trial.

Female Athletes With Better Psychological Readiness Are at Higher Risk for Second ACL Injury After Primary ACL Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Approximately 1 in 4 athletes returning to sports will sustain a second anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Psychological factors related to kinesiophobia, confidence, and psychological readiness are associated with second ACL injury; however, the evidence is conflicting.

HYPOTHESIS

Athletes who sustain a second ACL injury (ie, graft rupture or contralateral ACL rupture) within 2 years of ACL reconstruction (ACLR) would have greater kinesiophobia, less confidence, and lower psychological readiness prior to return to sport (RTS) compared with athletes who do not sustain a second ACL injury.

STUDY DESIGN

Secondary analysis of a prospective randomized trial.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 3.

METHODS

A total of 39 female Level I/II athletes completed the following measures after postoperative rehabilitation and a 10-session RTS and second ACL injury prevention program: ACL Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI) scale, the 11-item Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK-11), and question 3 on the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) quality of life (QoL) subscale. Athletes were dichotomized based on whether they sustained a second ACL injury within 2 years of ACLR or not. Independent t tests determined group differences in TSK-11, KOOS-QoL, ACL-RSI, and the 3 individual components of the ACL-RSI (ie, emotions, confidence, risk appraisal).

RESULTS

Nine athletes sustained a second ACL injury (4 graft ruptures and 5 contralateral ACL ruptures). The group that sustained a second ACL injury had higher scores on the ACL-RSI (P = 0.03), higher on the risk appraisal questions of the ACL-RSI (P < 0.01), and met RTS criteria sooner than athletes who did not (P = 0.04). All second ACL injuries occurred in athletes who underwent primary ACLR with hamstring tendon autografts.

CONCLUSION

Athletes who sustained a second ACL within 2 years of ACLR had a more positive psychological outlook, higher scores on the specific questions related to the risk appraisal construct of the ACL-RSI, and met RTS criteria sooner than athletes who did not sustain a second ACL injury.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Counseling athletes about delaying RTS to reduce the risk of second ACL injury may be especially important in athletes who display high psychological readiness and meet RTS criteria sooner.

Combining return to sport, psychological readiness, body mass, hamstring strength symmetry, and hamstring/quadriceps ratio increases the risk of a second anterior cruciate ligament injury

PURPOSE

To investigate the combinations of variables that comprise the biopsychosocial model domains to identify clinical profiles of risk and protection of second anterior cruciate ligament injury.

METHODS

One hundred and forty-five patients for return-to-sport testing after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) were contacted, and 97 were deemed eligible. All were evaluated between 6 and 24 months and followed up for 2 years. Participants answered the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Return to Sport after Injury Scale (ACL-RSI), performed the postural stability assessment using the Biodex Balance System, and assessed muscle strength at 60° and 300°/s on the isokinetic dynamometer. Personal factors (age, gender, body mass index), body structures (graft type and concomitant injuries), and environmental factors (time between surgery and evaluation) were also collected. The participants were asked about the occurrence of a second ACL injury and return to sport after 2 years of follow-up. Classification and regression tree (CART) analysis was used to determine predictors of a second ACL injury. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was performed to verify the accuracy of the CART analysis, in addition to the sensitivity, specificity, and relative risk (RR) of the model.

RESULTS

Of the initial 97 participants, 88 (89.8%) responded to follow-up and 14 (15.9%) had a second ACL injury (11 graft ruptures and three contralateral ACL). CART analysis identified the following variables as predictors of second ACL injury: return to sport, hamstring strength symmetry at 300°/s, ACL-RSI score, hamstrings/quadriceps ratio at 60°/s, and body mass index (BMI). CART correctly identified 9 (64.3%) of the 14 participants who were reinjured and 71 (95.9%) of the 74 participants who were not. The total correct classification was 90.9%. The area under the ROC curve was 0.88 (95% CI 0.72-0.99; p < 0.001), and the model showed a sensitivity of 75% (95% CI 42.8-94.5), specificity of 93.4% (95% CI 85.3-97.8), and RR of 15.9 (95% CI 4.9-51.4; p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

The combination of hamstring strength symmetry, hamstring/quadriceps ratio (body functions); return to sport (activity and participation); psychological readiness; and BMI (personal factors) could identify three clinical risk profiles for a second ACL injury with good accuracy.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Kinesiophobia Is Negatively Associated With Psychological Readiness to Return to Sport in Patients Awaiting Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

PURPOSE

To identify the factors associated with anterior cruciate ligament return to sport after injury (ACL-RSI) scores in patients awaiting ACL reconstruction (ACLR).

METHODS

This was a retrospective cross-sectional observational study conducted at a single clinical center. We recruited patients scheduled for primary ACLR, aged 16-45 years, and with modified Tegner activity scale scores ≥5 before ACL injury. The main outcome was psychological readiness to return to sport (RTS), as measured using the ACL-RSI scale. Participants' personal and injury-related information were obtained, and their psychological status (Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia [TSK] and athletic identity measurement scale) and knee functions (effusion, range of motion, joint stability, and knee flexion angle during a single-leg squat) were examined. All variables were assessed the day before the surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 105 patients (median [interquartile range]: age, 20.0 [9.0] years; body mass index, 22.8 [4.3] kg/m2; days from injury to surgery, 63.0 [65.0] days; 44% female) were enrolled. Univariate analysis indicated that only the TSK score was associated with the ACL-RSI scores (r = -0.305; P = .02). Multiple regression analysis of factors, including sex, preinjury Tegner activity scale score, and days from injury to surgery, further showed that only the TSK score was associated with the ACL-RSI scores (P = .002; 95% confidence interval -1.738 to -0.394).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients awaiting ACLR, kinesiophobia was moderately negatively associated with psychological readiness to RTS, while other factors were not.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective cross-sectional observational study.

Patients Who Return to Sport After Primary Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Have Significantly Higher Psychological Readiness: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of 3744 Patients

BACKGROUND

Although objective outcomes assessing knee function are essential measurements for return to sport, psychological factors have become increasingly recognized as equally important parameters for determining an athlete's ability to return to sport after surgery.

PURPOSE

To systematically review the literature to determine whether patients who returned to sport after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction had improved psychological scores (as measured with validated questionnaires) compared with patients who did not return to sport.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines and was preregistered on PROSPERO. Four databases were searched for level 1 to 3 studies that compared at least 1 psychological outcome measured by a validated questionnaire for patients who did and did not return to sport after primary ACL reconstruction. The following data were recorded: study and patient characteristics; psychological metrics (ACL-Return to Sport Injury [ACL-RSI] scale, Knee Self-Efficacy Scale [K-SES], and Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia [TSK/TSK-11]); International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score; and clinical metrics. Study methodological quality was analyzed using the methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS), and the mean difference (MD) and 95% CI were calculated for each psychological outcome score using the inverse variance method.

RESULTS

We included and analyzed 16 articles (3744 patients; 38.9% female; mean age range, 17-28.7 years; mean MINORS score, 19.9 ± 1.4). Overall, 61.8% of athletes returned to sport (66.8% of male patients; 55.4% of female patients). Patients who returned scored significantly higher on the ACL-RSI scale (MD, 20.8; 95% CI, 15.9 to 25.7; P < .001), significantly higher on the K-SES (MD, 1.3; 95% CI, 0.2 to 2.3; P = .036), and significantly lower on the TSK/TSK-11 (MD, 10.1%; 95% CI, -12.1% to -8.2%; P = .004). Those returning to sport did not exceed the minimal clinically important difference for IKDC score versus those not returning to sport.

CONCLUSION

Patients who returned to sport after primary ACL reconstruction had significantly higher psychological readiness, higher self-efficacy, and lower kinesiophobia compared with those who did not return to sport, despite having clinically similar knee function scores. Evaluation of psychological readiness, in combination with other objective measurements, is a critical component of return-to-sport evaluation in athletes after primary ACL reconstruction.

REGISTRATION

CRD42021284735 (PROSPERO).

Differences in psychological readiness for return to sport after anterior cruciate ligament injury is evident in thigh musculature motor unit characteristics

Background

Following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, many athletes that undergo surgery and 6-9 months of rehabilitation struggle to return to sport. Evidence suggests that psychological factors contribute to this failure to return-to-sport.

Objective

Determine the motor control relationship between thigh musculature motor unit characteristics and psychological readiness to return to sport between ACL-injured and healthy controls.

Study design

A longitudinal cohort study.

Methods

Athletes longitudinally completed the ACL Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI) survey and isometric strength measures with a measurement of electromyography (EMG) of the vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, biceps femoris, and semitendinosus. A score cut-off of 61 on the ACL-RSI was used to divide ACL-injured groups. EMG was decomposed to provide each identified motor unit's characteristics (amplitude, average firing rate, etc).

Results

Data demonstrated increased average firing rate for hamstrings (p<0.001), decreased average firing rate for vastus lateralis (p<0.001) and decreased motor unit size for both the quadriceps and hamstrings at return-to-sport post-ACL reconstruction compared with sex-matched and age-matched healthy controls (p<0.001). Furthermore, there were marked differences in disparate ACL-RSI scores between ACL-injured athletes.

Conclusions

At return to sport, ACL-injured athletes have major alterations of thigh musculature motor control, with smaller motor units used by those with low ACL-RSI scores. This study uniquely demonstrates objective thigh muscle motor unit characteristics that coincide with subjective reports of psychological readiness. This information will be important to address psychomotor complexes of injury for future rehabilitation protocols.

Effect of Age and Sex on Psychological Readiness and Patient-Reported Outcomes 6 Months After Primary ACL Reconstruction

Background

Successful return to sport after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) can be affected by a patient's physical and psychological state throughout the rehabilitation process.

Purpose

To prospectively compare differences in patients at 6 months after primary ACLR with the ACL-Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI), International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) or pediatric (Pedi)-IKDC, Hospital for Special Surgery Pediatric Functional Activity Brief Scale (Pedi-FABS), and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-Psychological Stress Experiences (PROMIS-PSE) scores.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods

Patients enrolled were 8 to 35 years old who underwent primary ACLR and had their 6-month follow-up appointments between December 2018 and March 2020. Patients were divided into 3 age groups as follows: (1) preadolescents (10-14 years); (2) adolescents (15-18 years); and (3) adults (>18 years). Outcomes on the ACL-RSI, IKDC/Pedi-IKDC, Pedi-FABS, and PROMIS-PSE were compared according to age group, graft type (hamstring, patellar tendon, quadriceps, or iliotibial band autograft), and sex.

Results

A total of 176 patients (69 male, 107 female), with a mean age of 17.1 ± 3.1 years were included in the study. The mean ACL-RSI scores were significantly different among age groups (preadolescents, 75 ± 18.9; adolescents, 61.5 ± 20.4; and adults, 52.5 ± 19.8 [P < .001]) and graft types (P = .024). The IKDC and PROMIS-PSE scores were also significantly different among age groups (P < .001 and P = .044, respectively) and graft types (P = .034 and P < .001, respectively), with the iliotibial graft and the younger age group performing the best. There was no significant difference in the Pedi-FABS either by age group (P = .127) or graft type (P = .198). Female patients had lower ACL-RSI scores and higher (worse) scores on PROMIS-PSE than their male counterparts (P = .019 and P < .001, respectively), with no sex-based differences on IKDC or Pedi-FABS scores. The ACL-RSI and IKDC were positively correlated (Spearman r = 0.57; P < .001), while the ACL-RSI and PROMIS-PSE were negatively correlated (Pearson r = -0.34; P < .001).

Conclusion

This study suggests that psychological profiles and subjective perceptions of knee function 6 months after ACLR may vary in patients of different ages and between the sexes. Preadolescent patients had better scores on a majority of patient-reported outcomes compared with adolescent and adult patients.

Comparison of Psychological Readiness to Return to Sport After Primary Versus Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Background

Rates of return to preinjury level of play after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) remain unsatisfactory, particularly for patients who undergo revision surgery. Psychological readiness is associated with successful return to sport (RTS) and self-perceived preinjury sport performance.

Purpose

To compare psychological readiness at RTS between patients who underwent revision ACL autograft reconstruction and matched controls who underwent primary ACL autograft reconstruction.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

Data were gathered using a single orthopaedic surgeon database of patients who underwent ACLR between 2015 and 2018. Patients who underwent revision ACLR and met the study criteria (N = 92) were matched by age, sex, graft type, and rehabilitation protocol to a control group of patients who underwent primary ACLR (n = 92). Functional assessment at release to play was examined using passive knee range of motion, single-leg squat, and single-leg hop testing. Self-reported outcomes included the International Knee Documentation Committee subjective function survey and the ACL-Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI) psychological readiness scale. Time to release to play was recorded as the number of months needed to reach a ≥90% limb symmetry index from the date of the index ACLR. Data were assessed for normality using the Shapiro-Wilk test, and univariate general linear models were utilized with an alpha level of .05.

Results

The overall mean patient age was 29.9 ± 10 years, and 40% of patients were women. No significant differences between groups were noted in any of the baseline patient characteristics or surgical findings. At RTS, the mean ACL-RSI score was significantly lower in the revision surgery group (77.4 ± 19.4 vs 85.3 ± 17.4; P = .011). In addition, the revision surgery group returned to play significantly later than the primary surgery group (9.4 ± 2 vs 8.1 ± 1.3 months, respectively; P < .001).

Conclusion

When compared with primary ACL autograft reconstruction, revision reconstruction patients exhibited lower psychological readiness scores and a longer time to meet the objective criteria for RTS.

Registration

NCT03704376 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).

Changes in subjective knee function and psychological status from preoperation to 6 months post anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Purpose

To determine characteristic changes in subjective knee function, kinesiophobia, and psychological readiness to return to sports between scores taken before anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) and those taken 6 months post-ACLR.

Methods

Thirty-two participants (median age, 20.0 years) were included. Subjective knee function was assessed using the International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Form (IKDC-SKF). The Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK-11) and Anterior Cruciate Ligament Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI) scale were used to evaluate kinesiophobia and psychological readiness to return to sport, respectively. Questionnaires were administered 1 day before surgery and at 6 months post-ACLR. A positive change was defined as an increase in IKDC-SKF and ACL-RSI scores and a decrease in TSK-11 score. The change in each score from pre-ACLR to 6 months post-ACLR was analyzed using a paired t-test. The percentage change in scores was calculated, and the correlations of the percentage change in the TSK-11 and ACL-RSI scores and that in the IKDC-SKF score were analyzed.

Results

All scores differed significantly positively from pre-ACLR to 6 months post-ACLR. The proportion of participants whose scores did not change positively from pre-ACLR to 6 months post-ACLR was higher for the TSK-11 (38.0%) and ACL-RSI (38.0%) than for the IKDC-SKF (6.3%). No correlation was observed between the percentage change in the IKDC-SKF score and that in the TSK-11 or ACL-RSI scores from pre-ACLR to 6 months post-ACLR.

Conclusions

Changes in subjective knee function and psychological status from pre-ACLR and 6 months post-ACLR may not be interdependent.

Isometric Knee Strength is Greater in Individuals Who Score Higher on Psychological Readiness to Return to Sport After Primary Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Background

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is extremely common among athletes. Rate of second ACL injury due to surgical graft rupture or contralateral limb ACL injury is approximately 15-32%. Psychological readiness to return to sport (RTS) may be an important predictor of successful RTS outcomes. Psychological readiness can be quantified using the ACL Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI) questionnaire, with higher scores demonstrating greater psychological readiness.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate differences in functional performance and psychological readiness to return to sport among athletes who have undergone primary ACL reconstruction (ACLR).

Study Design

Descriptive cohort study.

Methods

Eighteen athletes who had undergone primary ACLR were tested at time of RTS clearance. The cohort was divided into two groups, high score (HS) and low score (LS), based on median ACL-RSI score, and performance on static and dynamic postural stability testing, lower extremity isokinetic and isometric strength testing, and single leg hop testing was compared between the groups using an independent samples t-test.

Results

The median ACL-RSI score was 74.17. The average ACL-RSI score was 83.1±6.2 for the HS group and 61.8±8.0 for the LS group. High scorers on the ACL-RSI performed significantly better on isometric knee flexion as measured via handheld dynamometry (22.61% ±6.01 vs. 12.12% ±4.88, p=0.001) than the low score group.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that increased knee flexion strength may be important for psychological readiness to RTS after primary ACLR. Further research is indicated to explore this relationship, however, a continued emphasis on improving hamstring strength may be appropriate during rehabilitation following ACLR to positively impact psychological readiness for RTS.

Level of Evidence

III.

Return-to-Sport Criteria After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Fail to Identify the Risk of Second Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury

BACKGROUND

The incidence of second anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury after ACL reconstruction (ACLR) is high in young, active populations. Failure to successfully meet return-to-sport (RTS) criteria may identify adult athletes at risk of future injury; however, these studies have yet to assess skeletally mature adolescent athletes.

OBJECTIVE

To determine if failure to meet RTS criteria would identify adolescent and young adult athletes at risk for future ACL injury after ACLR and RTS. The tested hypothesis was that the risk of a second ACL injury after RTS would be lower in participants who met all RTS criteria compared with those who failed to meet all criteria before RTS.

DESIGN

Prospective case-cohort (prognosis) study.

SETTING

Laboratory.

PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS

A total of 159 individuals (age = 17.2 ± 2.6 years, males = 47, females = 112).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Participants completed an RTS assessment (quadriceps strength, functional hop tests) and the International Knee Documentation Committee patient survey (0 to 100 scale) after ACLR and were then tracked for occurrence of a second ACL tear. Athletes were classified into groups that passed all 6 RTS tests at a criterion level of 90% (or 90 of 100) limb symmetry and were compared with those who failed to meet all criteria. Crude odds ratios and 95% CIs were calculated to determine if passing all 6 RTS measures resulted in a reduced risk of second ACL injury in the first 24 months after RTS.

RESULTS

Thirty-five (22%) of the participants sustained a second ACL injury. At the time of RTS, 26% achieved ≥90 on all tests, and the remaining athletes scored less than 90 on at least 1 of the 6 assessments. The second ACL injury incidence did not differ between those who passed all RTS criteria (28.6%) and those who failed at least 1 criterion (19.7%, P = .23). Subgroup analysis by graft type also indicated no differences between groups (P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Current RTS criteria at a 90% threshold did not identify active skeletally mature adolescent and young adult athletes at high risk for second ACL injury.

Psychological Readiness to Return to Sport After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in the Adolescent Athlete

CONTEXT

Psychological readiness to return to sport has been shown to be associated with future play after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery but has not been extensively studied in adolescent athletes.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the psychometric properties of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI) scale in adolescent athletes at multiple time points after ACL reconstruction surgery and determine whether psychological readiness scores at 6 months predict return to competition sport at 12 months.

DESIGN

Case series.

SETTING

Private orthopaedic clinic.

PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS

A total of 115 adolescent athletes (65 girls, 50 boys) 17 years and younger who had undergone primary unilateral ACL reconstruction.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

The ACL-RSI scale was administered at 6 and 12 months after surgery, and return-to-sport status was also documented. Factor analysis was undertaken and predictive validity assessed using between-groups comparisons and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve statistics.

RESULTS

The ACL-RSI scores increased between 6 and 12 months (55 to 71; P < .001, effect size = 0.98). No floor or ceiling effects were present, and the scale had high internal consistency (Cronbach α at 6 months = 0.91 and at 12 months = 0.94). Principal component analysis showed that 2 factors were present: the first represented performance confidence and risk appraisal and the second, emotions. For the full-scale ACL-RSI, scores at 6 months had acceptable predictive ability for a return to play at 12 months (area under the ROC curve = 0.7, P = .03). When the 2 identified factors were analyzed separately, the emotions factor also had acceptable predictive ability (area under the ROC curve = 0.73, P = .009), but the confidence in performance and risk appraisal factors had poor predictive ability (area under the ROC curve = 0.59, P = .09).

CONCLUSIONS

Greater psychological readiness was associated with return to sport in adolescent athletes after ACL reconstruction, with the athletes' emotional response appearing to be more influential than their confidence in their performance or their appraisal of risk.

Cross-sectional study on relationships between physical function and psychological readiness to return to sport after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Information about specific factors of physical function that contribute to psychological readiness is needed to plan rehabilitation for a return to sports. The purpose of this study was to identify specific physical functions related to the psychological readiness of patients aiming to return to sports 6 months after reconstruction. We hypothesized that the knee strength is a factor related to the Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Return to Sport after Injury scale (ACL-RSI) cutoff score for a return to sports.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study. Fifty-four patients who had undergone primary reconstruction using hamstring tendon participated in this study. Psychological readiness was measured using the ACL-RSI in patients at 6 months after reconstruction. To identify specific physical functions related to the ACL-RSI score, participants were divided into groups with ACL-RSI scores of ≥ 60 or < 60. Non-paired t-tests or the Mann-Whitney test were performed to analyze group differences in objective variables in physical function: (1) knee strength in both legs; (2) leg anterior reach distance on both sides; and (3) single-leg hop (SLH) distances in three directions for both legs.

RESULTS

Significant differences between groups were identified in knee flexion strength (60°/s) for the uninvolved limb, hamstring-to-quadriceps ratio (60°/s) for the uninvolved limb, knee flexion strength (180°/s) for the involved limb, limb symmetry index (LSI) of leg anterior reach distance, the ratio of the distance to the height of the patient and LSI of SLH distances in lateral and medial directions.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that at 6 months after reconstruction, increased knee flexion strength (ratio of peak torque measured to body mass of the patient), hamstring-to-quadriceps ratio, leg anterior reach distance LSI, and lateral and medial SLH appear important to exceed the ACL-RSI cutoff for a return to sports. The present results may be useful for planning post-operative rehabilitation for long-term return to sports after reconstruction.

Editorial Commentary: Why the Mind Matters in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Recovery: Psychological Readiness and Return to Sport

Following anterior cruciate ligament injury and surgery, it is important that we prepare athletes to return to sport not only from a physical perspective but also a psychological one. Typically, we are concerned for an athlete who has low confidence or high anxiety. However, can being too psychologically ready to return to sport also be a bad thing? While the optimal psychological profile will vary from person to person, evidence is emerging that more extreme responses may have detrimental consequences and increase the risk of further injury.

Greater Psychological Readiness to Return to Sport, as Well as Greater Present and Future Knee-Related Self-Efficacy, Can Increase the Risk for an Anterior Cruciate Ligament Re-Rupture: A Matched Cohort Study

PURPOSE

To determine the psychological characteristics and strength outcomes of patients who sustained an early anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) re-rupture after their primary ACL reconstruction and cross-sectionally compare them with a matched cohort of patients who did not sustain a reinjury during the first 2 years after primary ACL reconstruction.

METHODS

In this matched cohort study, data for quadriceps and hamstring strength and 3 hop tests and answers to standardized patient-reported outcomes (the Anterior Cruciate Ligament Return to Sport after Injury scale and a short version of the Knee Self-Efficacy Scale) were extracted from a rehabilitation outcome registry. Data for patients suffering a re-rupture were extracted, and patients were matched in terms of sex, age, and activity level with patients not suffering an ACL re-rupture within 2 years of primary reconstruction. The groups were compared 10 weeks and 4, 8, and 12 months after the primary reconstruction.

RESULTS

A total of 36 patients suffering an ACL re-rupture were matched with 108 patients not suffering a re-rupture after ACL reconstruction. Patients who suffered an ACL re-rupture had greater psychological readiness, that is, greater confidence in performance, lesser negative emotions, and lesser risk appraisal, to return to sport (RTS) at 8 months (81.2 vs 67.9 [95% Δconfidence interval {CI} 2.7-23.8) P = .014) and at 12 months (95.2 vs 67.1, (95% ΔCI 14.3-41.8) P ≤ .001), and greater knee-related self-efficacy at 8 months (8.6 vs 8.0 [95% ΔCI 0.1-1.2], P = .021) and 12 months (9.4 vs 8.1, [95% ΔCI 0.3-2.2] P = .012) after primary ACL reconstruction, compared with the matched group.

CONCLUSIONS

A stronger psychological profile, defined by a greater psychological readiness to RTS and knee-related self-efficacy, may be associated with an ACL re-rupture within 2 years of the primary reconstruction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Matched cohort study, level III.

Arabic Version of the Short Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Return to Sport After Injury Scale: Translation, Cross-cultural Adaptation, and Validation

Background:

The short version of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament–Return to Sport After Injury (ACL-RSI) scale is a self-reported questionnaire developed to assess the psychological readiness of patients to return to sports after ACL reconstruction (ACLR).

Purpose:

To translate, cross-culturally adapt, and validate the short version of the ACL-RSI scale into the Arabic language (ACL-RSI-Ar).

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

The original short version of the ACL-RSI scale was forward and backward translated, cross-culturally adapted, and validated following international standardized guidelines. Sixty patients who participated in sports activities and underwent ACLR completed the ACL-RSI-Ar, the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Subjective Knee Evaluation Form, and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) scales. To assess test-retest reliability, 34 participants completed the ACL-RSI-Ar scale twice. Statistical tests were conducted to test the internal consistency, reliability, and construct and discriminant validity of the ACL-RSI-Ar scale.

Results:

The ACL-RSI-Ar showed adequate internal consistency (Cronbach alpha = 0.734) and excellent test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient, 0.871). The ACL-RSI-Ar was strongly correlated with the IKDC (Spearman ρ = 0.515, P < .001) and weakly to strongly correlated with all KOOS subscales (Spearman ρ = 0.247-0.590, P < .05). Patients who returned to sports had significantly higher scores on the ACL-RSI-Ar scale when compared with those who did not return to sports (P = .001).

Conclusion:

The short ACL-RSI-Ar scale, as translated, was internally consistent, reliable, and valid for evaluating psychological readiness to return to sports after ACLR in Arabic-speaking patients.

Advanced training enhances readiness to return to sport after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Patients with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) are often psychologically and physically under-prepared for sports participation. This study compared readiness to return to sport based on completion of advanced training after ACLR. Patients with ACLR who self-selected participation in a 6-week group-format advanced training program (TRAINING) were compared to age- and sex-matched patients who did not participate (NoTRAINING). Each group had 23 participants (14 females). Advanced training consisted of plyometric, strengthening, and agility exercises. Baseline and follow-up testing included psychological measures (Anterior Cruciate Ligament Return to Sport after Injury [ACL-RSI]; Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia [TSK-11]; Knee Activity Self-Efficacy [KASE]; and fear intensity for the primary fear-evoking task or situation) and a hop test battery. Return to sport criteria were ACL-RSI score ≥70 points and limb symmetry index ≥90% on all hop tests. At follow-up, KASE score was higher in TRAINING than NoTRAINING (92.7 vs. 89.1 points; respectively), but ACL-RSI, TSK-11 and fear intensity scores were not significantly different between groups. Return to sport criteria passing rate was not significantly different between groups at baseline (TRAINING: 13%, NoTRAINING: 30%) or follow-up (TRAINING: 52%, NoTRAINING: 43%); however, the distribution of criteria met at follow-up differed with more patients in TRAINING than NoTRAINING meeting hop test criteria (30% vs. 4%, respectively) and more patients in NoTRAINING than TRAINING failing to meet any criteria (25% vs. 0%, respectively). Advanced training after ACLR facilitated readiness for sport participation by improving confidence and hop performance, but may not have a preferential effect on fear.

Confidence, ability to meet return to sport criteria, and second ACL injury risk associations after ACL-reconstruction

This study tested the hypotheses that participants with high knee-related confidence at the time of return to sport (RTS) after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) would have a greater likelihood of meeting RTS criteria and would have a higher likelihood of second ACL injury. Participants completed RTS testing when cleared to RTS. Success was defined as an IKDC score more than or equal to 90 and all limb symmetry index (LSI) scores more than or equal to 90%. Confidence groups were created based on response to the KOOS Quality of Life subscale. Incidence of second ACL injury was tracked for 24 months after RTS. Associations among confidence, success in meeting RTS criteria, and second ACL injury were evaluated. At RTS, 37.7% were classified with high knee-related confidence, 26.4% met RTS criteria and 22.0% sustained a second ACL injury post-RTS. A higher proportion of confident participants met all RTS criteria (p = 0.001). Confident participants were over two times more likely to suffer a second ACL injury (odds ratio [OR] = 2.40; 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.21-5.20) (p = 0.02) and participants who were both confident and met all RTS criteria were 10 times more likely to suffer a second ACL injury (OR = 9.6; 95% CI:1.1, 84.2) (p = 0.02) than those who passed all RTS criteria but lacked knee-related confidence. Clinical significance: Confident, young athletes at the time of RTS after ACLR are more likely to meet all RTS criteria and more likely to sustain a second ACL injury after RTS. Future work must consider how the inclusion of additional factors into RTS criteria may better identify those at high risk for poor outcome after ACLR.

Unique Considerations for the Pediatric Athlete During Rehabilitation and Return to Sport After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries and surgical intervention in the pediatric population have increased in the recent years. Although surgical techniques have advanced, evidence-based rehabilitation guidelines that consider all aspects of the youth athlete are currently lacking. The purpose of this commentary is to review the current evidence on unique considerations for the pediatric and adolescent population during rehabilitation and return to sport after ACL reconstruction (ACLR), with a focus on children under 18 years of age. This review revealed that returning a youth athlete to sport after ACLR requires knowledge and appreciation of various aspects of the growing athlete different from adults. In addition to postoperative precautions that contribute to a slow rehabilitation process, young athletes need additional time for strength gains. Address risk of reinjury and for contralateral injury by using neuromuscular training and rigorous return-to-sport training programs. Consider return to sport after 9 months because the reinjury rate is high in this population. A combination of time and objective measures, both quantitative and qualitative criteria, and psychological readiness should be used to assess readiness to return to sport and decrease risk of future injury. Healthcare providers should be aware of the psychosocial impact of injury on the youth athletes and refer to sport psychology when necessary.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level V.

Evaluation of the Responsiveness of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament Return to Sport After Injury (ACL-RSI) Scale

Background

The Anterior Cruciate Ligament Return to Sport After Injury (ACL-RSI) scale is a reliable and valid tool for evaluation of psychological readiness to return to sport after ACL injury, but its responsiveness to change has not been extensively evaluated.

Purpose

To determine the responsiveness of the ACL-RSI scale.

Study Design

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods

The ACL-RSI scale and the knee confidence question from the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score-Quality of Life subscale was completed at 6 and 12 months after ACL reconstruction surgery. Responsiveness was assessed using distribution and anchor-based methods for the full- and short-form versions of the scale and subgroup analyzed for sex. From distribution statistics, the standardized response mean (SRM) and the smallest detectable change (SDC) were calculated. Using the anchor-based method, the minimally important change (MIC) that was associated with an improvement in knee confidence was determined using receiver operating characteristic analysis.

Results

A total of 441 patients (257 men, 184 women; mean age of 25 years) were included in this study. An SRM of 0.7 was found for both versions, indicating a moderate level of responsiveness. The MIC was 13.4 points for the full-form version and 15.1 points for the short-form version. These values were larger than SDC values at the group level but not at the individual patient level. Responsiveness was similar between male and female patients.

Conclusion

The ACL-RSI scale had sufficient responsiveness to investigate the efficacy of an intervention at a group level, but it may be more limited at an individual patient level.

Association Between Psychological Readiness and Knee Laxity and Their Predictive Value for Return to Sport in Patients With Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Deciding when patients are ready to return to sport (RTS) after an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) is challenging. The understanding of which factors affect readiness and how they may be related is limited. Therefore, despite widespread use of RTS testing, there is a lack of knowledge about which tests are informative on the ability to resume sports.

PURPOSE

To examine whether there is an association between knee laxity and psychological readiness to RTS after ACLR and to evaluate the predictive value of these measures on sports resumption.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

Patients aged ≥16 years engaged in physical activity/sports before injury were recruited at routine clinical assessment 9-12 months after ACLR. Exclusion criteria were concomitant ligament surgery at ACLR and/or previous ACL injury in the contralateral knee. At baseline, a project-specific activity questionnaire and the ACL-Return to Sport After Injury (ACL-RSI) scale were completed. Knee laxity was assessed by use of the Lachman test, KT-1000 arthrometer, and pivot-shift test. Two years after surgery, knee reinjuries and RTS status (the project-specific questionnaire) were registered. Associations between psychological readiness and knee laxity were evaluated with the Spearman rho test, and predictive ability of the ACL-RSI and knee laxity tests were examined using regression analyses.

RESULTS

Of 171 patients screened for eligibility, 132 were included in the study. There were small but significant associations between the ACL-RSI score and the Lachman test (rho = -0.18; P = .046) and KT-1000 arthrometer measurement (rho = -0.18; P = .040) but no association between the ACL-RSI and the pivot-shift test at the time of recruitment. Of the total patients, 36% returned to preinjury sport level by 2 years after surgery. Higher age, better psychological readiness, and less anterior tibial displacement (KT-1000 arthrometer measurement) were significant predictors of 2-year RTS (explained variance, 33%).

CONCLUSION

Small but significant associations were found between measurements of psychological readiness and anterior tibial displacement, indicating that patients with less knee laxity after ACLR feel more ready to RTS. ACL-RSI and KT-1000 arthrometer measurements were independent predictors of 2-year RTS and should be considered in RTS assessments after ACLR.

The Neuroplastic Adaptation Trident Model: A Suggested Novel Framework for ACL Rehabilitation

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries are common in athletic populations and there are many factors that contribute to a return to play decision. Human movement is diverse and variable, and it is important for patients recovering from an ACL injury to develop a variety of movement strategies for athletic performance. Variability of movement during sport may help to decrease injury risk by preparing the individual to handle many different situations and improve problem solving. ACL injuries result in neurophysiological dysfunction due to a disruption of the afferent information from the native mechanoreceptors in the ligament. Following injury, the brain enters a neuroplastic state and can adapt and change positively or negatively based on the rehabilitation or lack thereof. This commentary presents a novel framework for rehabilitation called the Neuroplastic Adaptation Trident Model that takes into account respected methods for attempting to achieve positive neuroplastic changes. This structured framework provides clinicians with reproducible methods to employ as part of the rehabilitation process to maximize motor control and motor learning. Suggested dosage and implementation are proposed to lead to a consistent and gradually progressive challenge throughout the entire rehabilitation process that takes advantage of the time from surgery until return to play. The purpose of this clinical commentary is to describe the Neuroplastic Adaptation Trident model and provide examples for clinical implementation. This method should be studied further to determine true effectiveness; currently, it is presented as a theoretical model based on best current evidence regarding ACL injury and rehabilitation of neurophysiologic dysfunction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

5.

The psychological readiness to return to sports of patients with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association of psychological readiness to return to sports preoperative and 6 months post-reconstruction in athletes with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Clinical center of sports medicine.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifty athletes, aged 16-45 years, were included in this study. Participants had a modified Tegner activity scale score ≥5 before ACL injury.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Participants were divided into High and Low groups based on ACL-return to sport after injury scale (ACL-RSI) scores 6 months post-ACL reconstruction (ACLR) (cutoff: 56 points).

RESULTS

The Low group had lower ACL-RSI scores than the High group preoperatively (P < 0.001) and 6 months post-ACLR (P < 0.001). The High group had a significantly greater amount of change in ACL-RSI scores preoperatively to 6 months post-ACLR than the Low group (P = 0.003). Preoperative ACL-RSI scores increased significantly to 6 months post-ACLR in the entire group of participants (P < 0.001) and in the High group (P < 0.001). However, in the Low group, ACL-RSI scores did not increase significantly (P = 0.714).

CONCLUSIONS

Participants with low ACL-RSI scores 6 months post-ACLR had low preoperative ACL-RSI scores that did not improve preoperatively to 6 months post-ACLR.

The Role of Psychological Readiness in Return to Sport Assessment After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Knowledge about the predictive value of return to sport (RTS) test batteries applied after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is limited. Adding assessment of psychological readiness has been recommended, but knowledge of how this affects the predictive ability of test batteries is lacking.

PURPOSE

To examine the predictive ability of a RTS test battery on return to preinjury level of sport and reinjury when evaluation of psychological readiness was incorporated.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

A total of 129 patients were recruited 9 months after ACLR. Inclusion criteria were age ≥16 years and engagement in sports before injury. Patients with concomitant ligamentous surgery or ACL revision surgery were excluded. Baseline testing included single-leg hop tests, isokinetic strength tests, the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Subjective Knee Form 2000, a custom-made RTS questionnaire, and the Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI) scale. The RTS criteria were IKDC 2000 score ≥85% and ≥85% leg symmetry index on hop and strength test. At a 2-year follow-up evaluation, further knee surgery and reinjuries were registered and the RTS questionnaire was completed again. Regression analyses and receiver operating characteristic analyses were performed to study the predictive ability of the test battery.

RESULTS

Out of the 103 patients who completed the 2-year follow-up, 42% returned to their preinjury level of sport. ACL-RSI 9 months after surgery (odds ratio [OR], 1.03) and age (OR, 1.05) predicted RTS. An ACL-RSI score <47 indicated that a patient was at risk of not returning to sport (area under the curve 0.69; 95% CI, 0.58-0.79), with 85% sensitivity and 45% specificity. The functional tests did not predict RTS. Six patients sustained ACL reinjuries and 7 underwent surgery for other knee complaints/injuries after RTS testing. None of the 29 patients who passed all RTS criteria, and were therefore cleared for RTS, sustained a second knee injury.

CONCLUSION

ACL-RSI and age were predictors of 2-year RTS, while functional tests were not informative. Another main finding was that none of the patients who passed the 85% RTS criteria sustained another knee injury.

Biomechanical but Not Strength or Performance Measures Differentiate Male Athletes Who Experience ACL Reinjury on Return to Level 1 Sports

BACKGROUND

Performance measures such as strength, jump height/length, and change of direction (CoD) time during anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rehabilitation have been used to determine readiness to return to play and identify those who may be at risk of rerupture. However, athletes may reach these criteria despite ongoing biomechanical deficits when performing these tests. Combining return-to-play criteria with an assessment of movement through 3-dimensional (3D) biomechanics in male field sports athletes to identify risk factors for ACL rerupture has not been explored previously.

PURPOSE

To prospectively examine differences in strength, jump, and CoD performance and movement using 3D biomechanics in a cohort of male athletes playing level 1 sports (ie, multidirectional field sports that involve landing, pivoting, or CoD) between those who reinjured the reconstructed ACL (RI group) and those with no reinjury (NRI group) after 2 years of follow-up and to examine the ability of these differences to predict reinjury.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

After primary ACL reconstruction (ACLR), 1045 male athletes were recruited and underwent testing 9 months after surgery including isokinetic strength, jump, and CoD performance measures as well as patient-reported outcomes and 3D biomechanical analyses. Participants were followed up after 2 years regarding ACL reinjury status. Differences were determined between the RI and NRI groups in patient-reported outcomes, performance measures, and 3D biomechanics on the ACLR side and symmetry between limbs. The ability of these measures to predict ACL reinjury was determined through logistic regression.

RESULTS

No differences were identified in strength and performance measures on the ACLR side or in symmetry. Biomechanical analysis indicated differences on the ACLR side primarily in the sagittal plane for the double-leg drop jump (effect size, 0.59-0.64) and greater asymmetry primarily in the frontal plane during unplanned CoD (effect size, 0.61-0.69) in the RI group. While these biomechanical test results were different between groups, multivariate regression modeling demonstrated limited ability (area under the curve, 0.67 and 0.75, respectively) to prospectively predict ACL reinjury.

CONCLUSION

Commonly reported return-to-play strength, jump, and timed CoD performance measures did not differ between the RI and NRI groups. Differences in movement based on biomechanical measures during double-leg drop jump and unplanned CoD were identified, although they had limited ability to predict reinjury. Targeting these variables during rehabilitation may reduce reinjury risk in male athletes returning to level 1 sports after ACLR.

REGISTRATION

NCT02771548 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).

Low Rate of Return to Preinjury Tegner Activity Level Among Recreational Athletes: Results at 1 Year After Primary ACL Reconstruction

Background

There is limited information about the functional recovery and rate of return to preinjury levels of sports among recreational athletes after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR).

Purpose

To investigate the recovery of quadriceps or hamstring strength, assess functional performance, and determine the rate of return to preinjury sports levels among recreational athletes at 1 year after ACLR.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

A total of 91 recreational-level athletes who underwent anatomic single-bundle ACLR were enrolled. We evaluated the limb symmetry index (LSI) of the quadriceps and hamstring peak torque strength at 60°, in addition to hop test performance (single-leg, triple, crossover, and 6-m timed), patient-reported outcomes, and pre- versus postoperative Tegner activity levels. Outcomes were compared between younger (age <25 years) and older patients (age ≥25 years).

Results

There were 48 patients in the younger group and 43 patients in the older group. At 1-year follow-up, the overall LSIs for quadriceps strength and hamstring strength were 77% and 86%, respectively, and the LSIs of the hop tests were 79% for single-leg, 81% for triple, 84% for crossover, and 85% for 6-m timed hop. Overall, only 24% patients returned to their preinjury Tegner level, and only 8% of patients met the criteria for return to pivoting, cutting, and jumping sports. At 1-year follow-up, the younger group showed significantly more quadriceps strength than the older group (85% vs 64%; P = .0001), better single, triple, crossover, and 6-m timed hop test results (85% vs 69%, P = .003; 84% vs 75%, P = .046; 91% vs. 74%, P < .001; and 91% vs 76%, P = .003, respectively), higher Lysholm score (87 vs 74; P < 0.001) and International Knee Document Committee score (82 vs 66; P < .001), and a higher rate of return to preinjury Tegner level (35% vs 12%; P = .009).

Conclusion

Only 24% of patients returned to the preinjury Tegner level at 1 year after ACLR (35% younger group vs 12% older group; P = .009). This information might be helpful in setting realistic expectations for recreational athletes after surgery.

Tegner level is predictive for successful return to sport 2 years after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

PURPOSE

For a successful return to sport (RTS) after an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), patients are recommended to attend a comprehensive rehabilitation program, followed by an RTS assessment, that is a combination of tests. The purpose of this study was to predict a successful return to sport using the results of the RTS assessment and self-reported questionnaires at minimum 2 years after ACLR.

METHODS

A total of 123 consecutive ACLR patients undertook an intensive rehabilitation program followed by a comprehensive RTS assessment that included an established combination of balance and strength tests, the ACL-return to sport after Injury scale (ACL-RSI) questionnaire and a KT1000 laximetry test. Preinjury and expected Tegner and Lysholm were collected at baseline, at RTS and prospectively collected at minimum 2-year follow-up. The patients were asked if they returned to their previous sport and at which level. All variables were included in a regression analysis predicting a successful return to previous sport, return to the same level of sport as well as the Tegner level at 2 years.

RESULTS

Sixty-two patients (50%) returned to their previous sport by the 2-year follow-up, without a difference in preinjury Tegner between these two groups (n.s.). Expected preoperative Tegner was the only significant predictor of a successful return to previous sport (p = 0.042; OR 1.300, 95% CI 1.010-1.672). Out of the 62 patients returning to their previous sport, 38 (61%) reported to be on the same or higher level. The only predictive variable for returning to the same level was the higher preinjury Tegner level (p = 0.048; OR 1.522). Multivariate regression analysis of Tegner level at 2 years found younger age to be the only predictive value. From the RTS assessment tests, the ACL-RSI questionnaire and the posterolateral balance test were predictive variables for Tegner at 2-year follow-up, albeit in the univariate regression analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative Tegner and expected Tegner level collected prior to an ACL reconstruction can aid in the objective prediction of patients' return to sport after 2 years. High-level athletes are more likely to return to their previous sport and to the previous level. Younger patients achieve a higher Tegner level at 2 years.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III study.

Remnant preservation provides good clinical outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

PURPOSE

To evaluate the association of remnant preservation (RP) and non-RP (NRP) with patient-reported outcome measures and subsequent graft rupture at a minimum 2-year follow-up after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.

METHODS

Patients in this retrospective study underwent primary isolated ACL reconstruction by the RP or NRP technique with a four- to five-strand hamstring tendon graft. Multivariate linear or logistic regression and Cox regression analyses were performed to compare the physical and psychological outcomes by the International Knee Documentation Committee subjective knee form (IKDC-SKF) and the Japanese Anterior Cruciate Ligament questionnaire 25 (JACL-25), respectively; satisfaction rate; and prognosticators of graft rupture.

RESULTS

In total, 120 patients (mean age, 30.6 ± 12.7 years; 54 RP, 66 NRP) with a mean follow-up of 3.2 ± 1.6 years were enrolled in this study. At the latest postoperative follow-up, the RP group showed a mean IKDC-SKF score of 92.3 ± 8.5 and mean JACL-25 score of 13.2 ± 11.2, while these scores in the NRP group were 86.4 ± 12.2 and 24.4 ± 19.5, respectively (P = 0.016 and 0.007, respectively). No significant differences were found in the return-to-sports rate (RP vs. NRP, 79.5% vs. 67.5%) or satisfaction rate (RP vs. NRP, 89.2% vs. 74.4%) (n.s.); however, a significant difference was found in the rate of return to the preinjury sports level (RP vs. NRP, 64.1% vs. 37.5%; P = 0.014). The graft rupture rate was significantly higher in the NRP than RP group (9/66 vs. 1/54; hazard ratio 9.29; 95% confidence interval 1.04-82.81). Younger age (≤ 18 years) was the other important risk factor for graft rupture (hazard ratio 8.67; 95% confidence interval 2.02-37.13).

CONCLUSION

Patients who underwent ACL reconstruction with the RP technique obtained somewhat better physical and psychological results than those who underwent ACL reconstruction with the NRP technique. With respect to clinical relevance, patients treated with the RP technique may obtain better outcomes in terms of graft rupture and return to the preinjury sports level than those treated with the NRP technique, but with no differences in overall return to sports or satisfaction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Patient function in serial assessments throughout the post-ACL reconstruction progression

OBJECTIVE

To assess the changes in patient strength and function from 4- to 6-month assessments following ACLR, determine relationships between changes in strength to changes in subjective function, and identify factors that predict patients that fail to increase in strength.

DESIGN

Prospective, Cohort Study.

SETTING

Controlled Laboratory.

PARTICIPANTS

Forty-seven patients(27 female, 24.3 ± 11.1 years) completed a battery of performance assessments at approximately 4- and 6-months following primary ACLR (4.03 ±0 .49 and 6.46 ±0 .68 months).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Subjective scores and isokinetic knee flexor and extensor strength were compared across visits. Patients were categorized per their ability to increase in strength beyond a previously defined threshold(0.22 Nm/kg). Binary logistic regression models were used to determine predictors of patients that failed to meet strength changes.

RESULTS

Patients demonstrated improvements in patient-reported outcomes and strength measures between visits(P's < 0.05). Higher age (B = -0.073, P = .039), lower pre-injury activity levels (B = 0.61, P = .022), and higher limb symmetry indexes (B = -0.044, P = .05) at 4-months were predictors of patients that did not achieve improvements in quadriceps strength between assessments.

CONCLUSIONS

From 4- to 6-months post-ACLR, increases in subjective function, strength and symmetry were observed. High quadriceps symmetry at interim assessments without consideration of the magnitude of strength values could overestimate recovery of quadriceps function.

Factors Associated With Psychological Readiness to Return to Sports With Cutting, Pivoting, and Jump-Landings After Primary ACL Reconstruction

Background:

High psychological readiness is an important element for returning to sports after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Identifying factors that contribute to psychological readiness is essential for planning interventions to return to play. No studies have used multivariate analysis to clarify factors associated with psychological readiness to return to specific sports.

Hypothesis:

To identify factors that contribute to an athlete’s psychological readiness to return after ACL reconstruction to sports that require cutting, pivoting, and jump-landings.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Study participants were athletes who before injury had participated in sports with limited contact that required cutting, pivoting, and jump-landings (basketball, soccer, futsal, volleyball, badminton, tennis, and frisbee) and hoped to return to the same sport after reconstruction. Psychological readiness was measured using the Anterior Cruciate Ligament–Return to Sport After Injury Scale (ACL-RSI) in athletes more than 6 months after primary ACL reconstruction. To clarify factors associated with the ACL-RSI, univariate regression analysis and multivariate regression analysis were performed using the following independent variables: age, sex, body mass index, time from injury to reconstruction, time from reconstruction to testing, meniscal surgery, modified Tegner activity scale before injury, kinesiophobia, limb symmetry index of knee strength, limb symmetry indices of single-leg hop (SLH) distances, and subjective running ability.

Results:

Higher subjective running ability, a lower kinesiophobia score, and greater limb symmetry in the lateral SLH were positively associated with psychological readiness.

Conclusion:

The psychological readiness of athletes aiming to return after ACL reconstruction to limited-contact sports that require cutting, pivoting, and jump-landings was affected by subjective running ability, kinesiophobia, and asymmetry of lateral SLH distance. This information may be useful in planning appropriate interventions and thereby increasing the likelihood of an athlete’s returning to such sports.

The Use of Psychological Patient Reported Outcome Measures to Identify Adolescent Athletes at Risk for Prolonged Recovery Following an ACL Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Psychological response to injury and the recovery process impact return to play and can put an athlete at risk for prolonged recovery. The purpose of this study was to investigate the psychological changes that occur surrounding an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction utilizing a set of patient reported outcomes measures (PROMs) that focus on psychological factors.

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing a primary ACL reconstruction, ages 12 to 18, were recruited. Patients were included if they verbalized a desire to return to the same sport and a baseline Tegner of >6. Functional and psychological PROMs were administered preoperatively, 6 months, and 1 year postoperatively. A Y-Balance Test was utilized to assess for clearance.

RESULTS

Of the 68 participants, 36 were female (52.9%) and 32 male, with a mean age of 14.5 years. On average, participants were cleared to return to sport 259.1 days postoperatively. Of the measures given preoperatively, only the Athletic Coping Skills Inventory-28 (ACSI)-28 correlated with delayed recovery time (rs=-0.291, P=0.04). Lower baseline ACSI-28 subscale scores in coachability (rs=-0.298, P=0.03) and Coping with Adversity (rs=-0.341, P=0.01) were correlated with delayed recovery. Participants that took longer than average to recover scored significantly lower on the ACSI-28 preoperatively than those with a shorter recovery time (62.04 vs. 54.8, P<0.01). Participants that scored <58 on their preoperative ACSI-28 took 2 months longer to recover than participants who scored ≥58 (9.6 vs. 7.65 mo, P<0.01). At 6 months postoperatively, higher ACSI-28 subscale Concentration (rs=-0.357, P<0.01) and Peaking Under Pressure (rs=-0.274, P=0.04) scores correlated with shorter recovery time.

CONCLUSIONS

The ACSI-28 significantly correlated with recovery time following ACL reconstruction. A baseline score of 58 may be a valuable cutoff to identify youth athletes at risk for prolonged recovery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II-prospective study.

Gender Differences in Psychological Responses to Recovery After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Before Return to Sport

CONTEXT

Female patients with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) are less likely to return to sport than males. Psychological readiness predicts successful return to sport, but it is unclear if psychological experiences differ between males and females during recovery.

OBJECTIVE

To explore gender differences in psychological readiness factors of return to sport after ACLR.

DESIGN

Qualitative study.

SETTING

Laboratory.

PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS

A total of 12 male (months since surgery = 6.2 ± 1.2) and 13 female (months since surgery = 6.4 ± 1.3) high school athletes with a history of ACLR.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Participants were interviewed before physician clearance to return to activity. Transcribed interviews were analyzed using deductive thematic coding of 5 themes identified from previous research (psychological distress, self-efficacy, locus of control, athletic identity, and fear of reinjury) and inductive secondary subthematic coding. Gender comparisons were generated within primary themes and secondary subthemes.

RESULTS

All deductive themes were consistently reinforced. Male and female participants reported fear of movement, loss of athletic identity, and motivational mindsets for return to sport and self-improvement. Males reported a stronger sense of internal locus of control using positive internal reinforcement, whereas females described balancing internal and external control and valuing external support systems. Male participants described mood changes influenced by physical and social limitations. Female participants closely monitored their emotions throughout recovery and were influenced by rehabilitation fluctuations.

CONCLUSIONS

Male and female high school athletes described different psychological factors related to return to sport and locus of control as well as psychological distress. Gender-specific psychological interventions may be warranted to overcome psychological barriers after ACLR.

All-Inside Quadrupled Semitendinosus Autograft Shows Stability Equivalent to Patellar Tendon Autograft Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Randomized Controlled Trial in Athletes 24 Years or Younger

PURPOSE

To compare clinical outcomes of knee anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) autograft reconstruction using all-inside quadrupled semitendinosus (AIST) versus bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) in a high-risk athletic population 24 years or younger.

METHODS

Skeletally mature candidates younger than 24 years old with an ACL tear were randomized into either the AIST (n = 32) or BPTB (n = 32) group and were followed for 2 years. Magnetic resonance imaging scans were obtained at 1-year follow-up, and radiographs were obtained at 2-year follow-up. All surgeries were performed by a single surgeon using an anteromedial portal to establish the femoral tunnel. The primary outcome measure was KT-1000 stability testing. Secondary outcome measures included International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Knee Evaluation Form, IKDC Subjective Form, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, Marx Activity Scale, visual analog pain scale, and SF-12 (Mental and Physical).

RESULTS

At 2-year follow-up, no statistical difference existed with KT-1000-measured side-to-side laxity between AIST (0.3 ± 0.7 mm, 95% confidence interval 0.0-1.0 mm) and BPTB (0.0 ± 0.8 mm, confidence interval CI -0.3 to 1.1 mm) (P = .197). In addition, no statistical differences between the groups were found for IKDC Subjective Form, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, Marx, SF-12 Mental, SF-12 Physical, or with regards to imaging findings. Patients with BPTB reported significantly greater postoperative pain scores at days 2 (P = .049), 3 (P = .004), and 7 (P = .015) and had significantly greater kneeling pain at 2 years (P < .019). A return to sport questionnaire at 2 years revealed no significant difference between the groups for returning to preoperative level of sport activity (83% AIST, 74% BPTB; P = .415). Two graft retears (7%; P = .222) occurred in the AIST group. Three patients in the BPTB group experienced ACL tears in the contralateral knee (9%; P = .239).

CONCLUSIONS

ACL reconstruction with an all-inside quadrupled semitendinosus autograft construct is equivalent to patellar BPTB autograft based on KT-1000 stability testing in athletes 24 years or younger.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

randomized controlled trial with 92% 2-year follow-up, Level I.

Injury-Related Fears During the Return-to-Sport Phase of ACL Reconstruction Rehabilitation

Background:

Fear of reinjury is common after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) and often deters a return to preinjury sport participation. A better understanding of injury-related fear is needed to inform rehabilitation strategies.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to (1) identify individual fear-evoking tasks or situations, (2) compare the intensity and amount of change relative to other injury-related fears (reinjury, knee giving way, and knee pain) after completion of a return-to-sport training program, and (3) determine whether standardized questionnaires can identify the intensity of fear for the individual fear-evoking task or situation and for fear of reinjury. The hypothesis was that the task or situation that evokes fear would vary across patients and the intensity of that fear would be higher and show less change after return-to-sport training compared with other injury-related fears.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Participants included 33 patients (15 males; mean age, 18 years) with ACLR who enrolled in a group-format return-to-sport training program. Questionnaires completed before and after return-to-sport training included items to specify fear-evoking tasks or situations, items to rate the intensity of various injury-related fears, the Anterior Cruciate Ligament Return to Sport after Injury scale (ACL-RSI), and the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK-11).

Results:

The most common fear-evoking task or situation was cutting, followed by contact, jumping, and other. Intensity of fear-evoking task or situation was higher than other injury-related fears, but all fears decreased in intensity after training. The ACL-RSI score better identified the intensity of fear for the individual fear-evoking task or situation and for fear of reinjury than did the TSK-11 score.

Conclusion:

Activities that evoke fear vary across patients, but fear of cutting is common. The intensity of common fears after ACLR decreased after advanced group training, and large effect sizes were seen for nearly all examined fears. Fear of reinjury and intensity of individually feared tasks may be better reflected in the ACL-RSI score than the TSK-11 score.

Psychometric Analysis and Effectiveness of the Psychological Readiness of Injured Athlete to Return to Sport (PRIA-RS) Questionnaire on Injured Soccer Players

The decision-making process about when an athlete may safely return to training and competition after an injury is a difficult decision. Safe return to training and competition is characterised by physical and psychological readiness to return to the sport. The objectives of this study are (1) to assess the measurement properties of the Psychological Readiness of Injured Athlete to Return to Sport questionnaire (PRIA-RS), and (2) to analyse the effectiveness which the PRIA-RS questionnaire possesses when applied during four consecutive seasons on professional soccer players. One hundred and nine male soccer players from the Albacete Soccer Club (Spain) were involved during four consecutive seasons for the current study: 2012–2013, 2013–2014, 2014–2015 and 2015–2016. Psychometric analysis (validity, reliability, internal consistency and effectiveness) and external psychometric analysis (evaluating measures of patient-reported outcomes (EMPRO)) were confirmed and supported. The main results of the study reveal that the psychometric properties of this questionnaire are optimum for their application in a professional sports context.