Effectiveness of lateral slide exercise in an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction rehabilitation home exercise program

Weight-Bearing Exercises on Slideboard Increase Quadriceps and Hamstring Activation Levels and Improve Hip- and Knee-Flexion Angles in Physically Active Individuals

CONTEXT

Slideboards are commonly used in exercise programs, but there is limited information about how they affect muscle activities during exercise. We aim to compare the activation levels of quadriceps and hamstring muscles and hip- and knee-flexion angles during lunge and single-leg squat exercises between normal ground and slideboard in physically active individuals.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

Thirty healthy individuals (age: 23.83 [2.84] y, body mass index: 21.75 [1.72] kg/m2) were included in the study. Surface electromyography was used to measure vastus medialis, vastus lateralis, biceps femoris, and semitendinosus activation levels during reaching and returning phases of the forward, lateral, and back lunges and squats that were performed on the normal ground and slideboard. Exercises were performed at a slow pace (60 beats/min). Hip- and knee-flexion angles during the exercises were evaluated by using 2-dimensional motion analysis. Repeated measures of analysis of variance were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Vastus medialis and vastus lateralis activation levels were greater during reaching and returning phases of the exercises on slideboard compared with normal ground (P < .05). However, semitendinosus and biceps femoris activity were greater only during the returning phase of the forward lunge (P < .001) and the returning phase of the back squat (P = .002, P = .009, respectively). Hip-to-knee flexion ratios were closer to 1 when the forward lunge (P < .001), back lunge (P = .004), and forward squat (P = .001) exercises were performed on a slideboard.

CONCLUSION

In exercise programs that target the quadriceps and hamstring muscles, slideboards can be effectively used in exercise progressions as they can increase muscle activity. Moreover, squat and lunge exercises on slideboard with a slow pace may also be helpful for improving the balance between hip- and knee-flexion angles.

Postoperative Rehabilitation of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review

Recent studies have investigated the various components of postoperative rehabilitation protocols following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The objective of this article was to access and summarize the latest evidence for postoperative rehabilitation protocols following ACLR to evaluate common timeframes, number of phases, exercises, as well as the length of rehabilitation protocol. Common interventions include vibration training, open-chain and closed-chain exercises, electrical stimulation, postoperative bracing, and aquatic therapy. The eligibility criteria included English-language articles published from 2000 to 2019 pertaining to rehabilitation following ACLR, excluding addresses, commentaries, and editorials. Two blinded reviewers screened, graded, and extracted data from articles. Recommendations on various aspects of rehabilitation were summarized. A total of 3651 articles were retrieved from the database search, and 62 level 1 to 2 studies were available for extraction. On the basis of the evidence, vibration training can be safely incorporated into the postoperative rehabilitation protocol following ACLR. Accelerated rehabilitation may give patients short-term functional benefits. Open kinetic chain exercises may have additional strength and endurance benefits. Postoperative bracing does not confer additional benefits. Long-term use of neuromuscular electrical stimulation seems to be more beneficial than short-term use. Aquatic rehabilitation may be beneficial in the early phases of anterior cruciate ligament rehabilitation.

Effect of high body mass index on knee muscle strength and function after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using hamstring tendon autografts

BACKGROUND

Increased body mass index (BMI) has been associated with poorer function in patients who have undergone anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. However, the effect of high BMI on muscle strength in these patients remained unclear. The current study aimed to compare knee muscle strength and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) in ACL-reconstructed patients with a variety of different BMIs.

METHODS

From November 2013 to March 2016, we prospectively enrolled 30 patients who underwent ACL reconstruction (18-60 years of age). Anthropometric parameters, body compositions, isokinetic muscle strength and KOOS were assessed preoperatively, and at post-operative 16th week and 28th week. The patients were stratified into two groups by BMI, i.e. normal BMI (18.5-24.9 kg/m²) and high BMI (≥25.0 kg/m²).

RESULTS

Twelve patients in the normal BMI group completed the follow-up, while sixteen patients did so in the high BMI group. In comparison of muscle strength between baseline and 28th week follow-up, the normal BMI group had significant increases in overall knee muscle strength, while the high BMI group only had increases in extensors of uninjured knee and flexors of the injured knee. However, there were significant increases in all KOOS subscales for the high BMI group. The high BMI patients reported increased KOOS, which may reflect the contribution of ligament stability in the presence of inadequate muscle strength.

CONCLUSIONS

The normal BMI patients had improvement in all knee muscle strength following ACL reconstruction, while high BMI patients only had increases in certain knee muscles. High BMI patients had a decreased quadriceps muscle symmetry index, as compared to their normal BMI counterparts. Increases in quadriceps muscle strength of the uninjured knee and ACL reconstruction were associated with improvements in KOOS in high BMI patients.

On-Ice Return-to-Hockey Progression After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Synopsis The literature pertaining to the rehabilitation of ice hockey players seeking to return to sport after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is currently limited. The purpose of this clinical commentary was to present a criterion-based progression for return to ice hockey for athletes after ACLR. First, we review pertinent literature and provide previously published guidelines on general rehabilitation after ACLR. Then, we present a 4-phase, on-ice skating progression with objective criteria to initiate each phase. During the early on-ice phase, the athlete is reintroduced to specific demands, including graded exposure to forward, backward, and crossover skating. In the intermediate on-ice phase, the emphasis shifts to developing power and introducing anticipated changes of direction within a controlled environment. During the late on-ice phase, the focus progresses to developing anaerobic endurance and introducing unanticipated changes of direction, but still without other players or contact. Finally, once objective return-to-sport criteria are met, noncontact team drills, outnumbered and even-numbered drills, practices, scrimmages, and games are progressively reintroduced during the return-to-sport phase. Recommendations for off-ice strength and conditioning exercises complement the on-ice progression. Additionally, we apply the return-to-hockey progression framework to a case report of a female collegiate defensive ice hockey player who returned to sport successfully after ACLR. This criterion-based return-to-hockey progression may guide rehabilitation specialists managing athletes returning to ice hockey after ACLR. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2017;47(5):324-333. Epub 29 Mar 2017. doi:10.2519/jospt.2017.7245.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: MOON Guidelines

Context:

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction rehabilitation has evolved over the past 20 years. This evolution has been driven by a variety of level 1 and level 2 studies.

Evidence Acquisition:

The MOON Group is a collection of orthopaedic surgeons who have developed a prospective longitudinal cohort of the ACL reconstruction patients. To standardize the management of these patients, we developed, in conjunction with our physical therapy committee, an evidence-based rehabilitation guideline.

Study Design:

Clinical review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 2.

Results:

This review was based on 2 systematic reviews of level 1 and level 2 studies. Recently, the guideline was updated by a new review. Continuous passive motion did not improve ultimate motion. Early weightbearing decreases patellofemoral pain. Postoperative rehabilitative bracing did not improve swelling, pain range of motion, or safety. Open chain quadriceps activity can begin at 6 weeks.

Conclusion:

High-level evidence exists to determine appropriate ACL rehabilitation guidelines. Utilizing this protocol follows the best available evidence.

WITHDRAWN: Exercise for treating anterior cruciate ligament injuries in combination with collateral ligament and meniscal damage of the knee in adults

BACKGROUND

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is the most frequently injured ligament of the knee. The ACL may be damaged in isolation but often other ligaments and menisci are implicated. The injury may be managed surgically or conservatively. Injury causes pain, effusion and inflammation leading to alteration in muscle function. Regaining muscular control is essential if the individual wishes to return to pre-injury level of function and patients will invariably be referred for rehabilitation.

OBJECTIVES

To present the best evidence for effectiveness of exercise used in the treatment of ACL injuries in combination with collateral ligament and meniscal damage to the knee in adults, on return to work and pre-injury levels of activity.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Bone, Joint and Muscle Trauma Group Specialised Register (October 2006), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library 2006, Issue 3), MEDLINE (1996 to October 2006), EMBASE (1980 to October 2006), other databases and reference lists of articles.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials and quasi-randomised trials testing exercise programmes designed to treat adults with ACL injuries in combination with collateral ligament and meniscal damage. Included trials randomised participants to receive any combination of the following: no care, usual care, a single-exercise intervention, and multiple-exercise interventions. The primary outcome measures of interest were returning to work and return to pre-injury level of activity post treatment, at six months and one year.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently assessed trial quality and extracted data. Study authors were contacted for additional information. Adverse effects information was collected from the trials.

MAIN RESULTS

Five trials (243 participants) evaluated different exercise programmes following ACL reconstruction and one trial (100 participants) compared supervised with self-monitored exercises as part of conservative treatment. No study compared the effect of exercise versus no exercise. Methodological quality scores varied considerably across the trials; participant and assessor blinding were poorly reported. Pooling of data was rarely possible due to the wide variety of comparisons, outcome measures and time points reported, and lack of appropriate data. Insufficient evidence was found to support the efficacy of one exercise intervention over another.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

This review has demonstrated an absence of evidence to support one form of exercise intervention over another. Further research should be considered in the form of large scale well-designed and well-reported randomised controlled trials with suitable outcome measures and surveillance periods. Suitable outcome measures should include a measure of functional outcome relevant to the individual.

WITHDRAWN: Exercise for treating isolated anterior cruciate ligament injuries in adults

BACKGROUND

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is the most frequently injured ligament of the knee. Injury causes pain, effusion and inflammation leading to the inability to fully activate the thigh muscles. Regaining muscular control is essential if the individual wishes to return to pre-injury level of function and patients will invariably be referred for rehabilitation.

OBJECTIVES

To present the best evidence for effectiveness of exercise used in the rehabilitation of isolated ACL injuries in adults, on return to work and pre-injury levels of activity.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Bone, Joint and Muscle Trauma Group Specialised Register (Feb 2005), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library, Issue 1, 2005), MEDLINE (1996 to March 2005), EMBASE (1980 to March 2005), other databases and reference lists of articles.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials and quasi-randomised trials testing exercise programmes designed to rehabilitate adults with isolated ACL injuries. Trials where participants were randomised to receive any combination of the following: no care, usual care, a single-exercise intervention, and multiple-exercise interventions, were included. The primary outcome measures of interest were returning to work and return to pre-injury level of activity post treatment, at six months and one year.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently assessed trial quality and extracted data. Study authors were contacted for additional information. Adverse effects information was collected from the trials.

MAIN RESULTS

Nine trials involving 391 participants were included. Only two trials, involving 76 participants, reported conservative rehabilitation and seven trials, involving 315 participants, evaluated rehabilitation following ACL reconstruction. Methodological quality scores varied considerably across the trials, with the nature of participant and assessor blinding poorly reported. Trial comparisons fell into six categories. Pooling of data was rarely possible due to lack of appropriate data as well as the wide variety in outcome measures and time points reported. Insufficient evidence was found to support the efficacy of one exercise intervention over another.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

This review has demonstrated an absence of evidence to support one form of exercise intervention against another and the use of supplementary exercises in the management of isolated ACL injuries. Further research in the form of large scale well designed randomised controlled trials with suitable outcome measures and surveillance periods, using standardised reporting should be considered.

A systematic review of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction rehabilitation: part II: open versus closed kinetic chain exercises, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, accelerated rehabilitation, and miscellaneous topics

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a common surgical knee procedure that requires intensive postoperative rehabilitation by the patient. A variety of randomized controlled trials have investigated aspects of ACL reconstruction rehabilitation. A systematic review of English language level 1 and 2 studies identified 54 appropriate randomized controlled trials of ACL rehabilitation. This part of the article discusses open versus closed kinetic chain exercises, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, accelerated rehabilitation, and miscellaneous topics.

A systematic review of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction rehabilitation: part II: open versus closed kinetic chain exercises, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, accelerated rehabilitation, and miscellaneous topics

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a common surgical knee procedure that requires intensive postoperative rehabilitation by the patient. A variety of randomized controlled trials have investigated aspects of ACL reconstruction rehabilitation. A systematic review of English language level 1 and 2 studies identified 54 appropriate randomized controlled trials of ACL rehabilitation. This part of the article discusses open versus closed kinetic chain exercises, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, accelerated rehabilitation, and miscellaneous topics.

Novel drug product to improve joint motion and function and reduce pain after arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

PURPOSE

OMS103HP, an investigational drug product containing ketoprofen, amitriptyline, and oxymetazoline, is added to arthroscopic irrigation solution. OMS103HP was evaluated in patients undergoing arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction to assess the drug's safety and ability to improve postoperative knee function and motion, reduce postoperative pain, and allow earlier return to work.

METHODS

This was a prospective, double-blind, vehicle-controlled, parallel-group, randomized study. Allograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction patients in both treatment and vehicle control groups were monitored for safety and efficacy (e.g., measurements of knee function and motion, pain, and return to work) over a 30-day postoperative period. The efficacy endpoints of primary interest were assessed by use of both responder and time-to-event analyses.

RESULTS

There were statistically significant differences (P < or = .05) between the OMS103HP and vehicle control groups in the endpoints of knee function (knee function composite and straight-leg raise component of knee function composite), range of motion (median number of days to maximum passive flexion of 90 degrees or greater without pain and time to discontinuation of continuous passive motion), quadriceps and hamstring muscle strength, successful pain management, and return to work. The overall incidences of adverse events and abnormal clinical laboratory values for both OMS103HP- and vehicle-treated subjects were similar, and none was attributed to OMS103HP.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical benefits of OMS103HP in this study were reduced postoperative pain; improved postoperative knee motion, quadriceps and hamstring muscle strength, and knee function; and earlier return to work as measured by surgeons, nurses, and physical therapists across repeated clinic visits and rehabilitation sessions and recorded by patients in daily diaries. The drug was well tolerated.

Exercise for treating anterior cruciate ligament injuries in combination with collateral ligament and meniscal damage of the knee in adults

BACKGROUND

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is the most frequently injured ligament of the knee. The ACL may be damaged in isolation but often other ligaments and menisci are implicated. The injury may be managed surgically or conservatively. Injury causes pain, effusion and inflammation leading to alteration in muscle function. Regaining muscular control is essential if the individual wishes to return to pre-injury level of function and patients will invariably be referred for rehabilitation.

OBJECTIVES

To present the best evidence for effectiveness of exercise used in the treatment of ACL injuries in combination with collateral ligament and meniscal damage to the knee in adults, on return to work and pre-injury levels of activity.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Bone, Joint and Muscle Trauma Group Specialised Register (October 2006), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library 2006, Issue 3), MEDLINE (1996 to October 2006), EMBASE (1980 to October 2006), other databases and reference lists of articles.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials and quasi-randomised trials testing exercise programmes designed to treat adults with ACL injuries in combination with collateral ligament and meniscal damage. Included trials randomised participants to receive any combination of the following: no care, usual care, a single-exercise intervention, and multiple-exercise interventions. The primary outcome measures of interest were returning to work and return to pre-injury level of activity post treatment, at six months and one year.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently assessed trial quality and extracted data. Study authors were contacted for additional information. Adverse effects information was collected from the trials.

MAIN RESULTS

Five trials (243 participants) evaluated different exercise programmes following ACL reconstruction and one trial (100 participants) compared supervised with self-monitored exercises as part of conservative treatment. No study compared the effect of exercise versus no exercise. Methodological quality scores varied considerably across the trials; participant and assessor blinding were poorly reported. Pooling of data was rarely possible due to the wide variety of comparisons, outcome measures and time points reported, and lack of appropriate data. Insufficient evidence was found to support the efficacy of one exercise intervention over another.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

This review has demonstrated an absence of evidence to support one form of exercise intervention over another. Further research should be considered in the form of large scale well-designed and well-reported randomised controlled trials with suitable outcome measures and surveillance periods. Suitable outcome measures should include a measure of functional outcome relevant to the individual.

Treatment of anterior cruciate ligament injuries, part 2

Anterior cruciate ligament tears, common among athletes, are functionally disabling; they predispose the knee to subsequent injuries and the early onset of osteoarthritis. A total of 3810 studies published between January 1994 and the present were identified and reviewed to determine the current state of knowledge regarding the treatment of anterior cruciate ligament injuries. Part 1 of this article focused on studies pertaining to the biomechanical behavior of the anterior cruciate ligament, the prevalence of and risk factors for injuries related to it, the natural history of the ligament-deficient knee, injuries associated with anterior cruciate ligament disruption, indications for the treatment of anterior cruciate ligament injuries, as well as nonoperative and operative treatments. Part 2 includes technical aspects of anterior cruciate ligament surgery, bone tunnel widening, graft healing, rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, and the effects of sex, age, and activity level on the outcome of such reconstructive surgery.

Exercise for treating isolated anterior cruciate ligament injuries in adults

BACKGROUND

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is the most frequently injured ligament of the knee. Injury causes pain, effusion and inflammation leading to the inability to fully activate the thigh muscles. Regaining muscular control is essential if the individual wishes to return to pre-injury level of function and patients will invariably be referred for rehabilitation.

OBJECTIVES

To present the best evidence for effectiveness of exercise used in the rehabilitation of isolated ACL injuries in adults, on return to work and pre-injury levels of activity.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Bone, Joint and Muscle Trauma Group Specialised Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, EMBASE, PEDro - The Physiotherapy Evidence Database, CINAHL, AMED, and reference lists of articles.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials and quasi-randomised trials testing exercise programmes designed to rehabilitate adults with isolated ACL injuries. Trials where participants were randomised to receive any combination of the following: no care, usual care, a single-exercise intervention, and multiple-exercise interventions. The primary outcome measures of interest were returning to work and return to pre-injury level of activity post treatment, at six months and one year.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

All trials judged to have met the inclusion criteria were independently assessed for methodological quality by use of a 15 point checklist. Pairs of authors independently extracted data. For each study, relative risk and 95% confidence intervals were calculated for dichotomous outcomes and mean differences and 95% confidence intervals calculated for continuous outcomes.

MAIN RESULTS

Nine trials, involving 391 participants met the inclusion criteria of the review. Only two trials, involving 76 participants, reported conservative rehabilitation and seven trials, involving 315 participants, evaluated rehabilitation following ACL reconstruction. Methodological quality scores varied considerably across the trials, with the nature of participant and assessor blinding poorly reported. Trial comparisons fell into six categories. Pooling of data was rarely possible due to lack of appropriate data as well as the wide variety in outcome measures and time points reported. Insufficient evidence was found to support the efficacy of one exercise intervention over another.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

This review has demonstrated an absence of evidence to support one form of exercise intervention against another and the use of supplementary exercises in the management of isolated ACL injuries. Further research in the form of large scale well designed randomised controlled trials with suitable outcome measures and surveillance periods, using standardised reporting should be considered.

Comparison of Forward-, Backward-, and Lateral-Motion Exercise at Self-Selected Intensities

Context:

Rehabilitation specialists should understand cardiovascular responses to different movement patterns.

Objective:

To investigate physiological responses to forward- (FM), backward- (BM), and lateral-motion (LM) exercise at self-selected intensities.

Design:

Within-subjects design to test independent variable, movement pattern; repeated-measures ANOVA to analyze oxygen consumption (VO2), heart rate (HR), respiratory-exchange ratio (RER), and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE).

Participants:

10 healthy women.

Results:

VO2and HR were significantly higher during LM than during FM and BM exercise. The respective VO2(ml · kg · min–1) and HR (beats/min) values for each condition were FM 25.19 ± 3.6, 142 ± 11; BM 24.24 ± 2.7, 145 ± 12; and LM 30.5 ± 4.6, 160 ± 13. No differences were observed for RER or RPE.

Conclusions:

At self-selected intensities all 3 modes met criteria for maintaining cardiovascular fitness. Practitioners can use these results to develop rehabilitation programs based on clients’ perception and level of discomfort

The effects of proprioceptive or strength training on the neuromuscular function of the ACL reconstructed knee: a randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a proprioceptive training program (PT) vs. a strength training (ST) program on neuromuscular function after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The second purpose was to establish the determinants of functional ability for the operated limb.

METHODS

Ten participants with unilateral ACL reconstructions were randomly assigned to one of the following 12-week training protocols: (1) isotonic ST, and (2) PT. The outcome measures were: (1) peak torque time of the hamstring muscles (PeakTT), (2) average concentric and eccentric torques of the quadriceps and hamstring muscles, (3) one-legged single hop for distance (SLHD), (4) one-legged time hop (TH), and (5) subjective scores.

RESULTS

: There was a significant group by time interaction effect for PeakTT (P = 0.017). The PT group demonstrated greater percent change in isokinetic torques than the ST group at the end of the 12 weeks (P < or = 0.05). Participants in both groups demonstrated similar significant gains in functional ability and subjective scores (P < or = 0.014). Quadriceps strength is a determinant of functional ability for the operated limb (R2 = 0.72).

CONCLUSIONS

: Both training protocols influenced PeakTT. The beneficial effects of ST on PeakTT appear to be load-dependent, while sufficient practice may be crucial in maintaining PeakTT improvements induced by PT. Proprioceptive training alone can induce isokinetic strength gains. Restoring and increasing quadriceps strength is essential to maximize functional ability of the operated knee joint.

Changes in Isokinetic Muscle Strength of the Lower Extremity in Recreational Athletes with Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Objective:

To investigate changes in muscle strength in the lower extremity after ACL reconstruction.

Design:

Prospective case series.

Dependent Variables:

Isokinetic muscle strength measured in 6 movements (hip extension/flexion, hip adduction/abduction, knee extension/flexion) and circumference of the thigh/calf.

Setting:

Clinic and home.

Patients:

44 (24 men, 20 women) between the ages of 16 and 47 years with an ACL rupture. All underwent reconstruction via a semitendinosus autograft.

Main Outcome Measures:

The peak torque for each joint movement was recorded. Repeated-measures ANOVA and power analysis were conducted to detect significant interaction effects.

Results:

The decline of muscle strength after ACL reconstruction remained not only in the knee extensors and flexors but also in the hip adductors.

Conclusion:

Rehabilitation programs that address the behavioral patterns and physiological characteristics of an ACL injury will benefit the athlete’s whole body and lead to a full recovery.