Concurrent assessments of lower limb loading patterns, mechanical muscle strength and functional performance in ACL-patients - A cross-sectional study

BackgroundFull recovery in muscle strength and functional performance may not be achieved after ACL-injury. Aim: The aim of this study is to investigate loading patterns during jumping, muscle function and functional performance in ACL-reconstructed patients and to investigate the origin of between-limb asymmetry by means of a 3-dimensional movement analysis. Design is cross-sectional.Methods23 ACL-reconstructed men (27.2 ± 7.5 years, BMI: 25.4 ± 3.2) 27 ± 7 month post-surgery and 25 matched controls (27.2 ± 5.4 years, BMI: 24.1 ± 1.8) were included. Participants performed (i) bilateral and (ii) unilateral counter movement jumps (CMJ). A 3-D movement analysis was performed by a six-camera Vicon MX-system. Subsequently, jump height (JH), knee joint range of motion (ROM), peak and mean sagittal knee moments were analyzed (iii) one-leg maximal jump for distance was performed, and (iv) maximal unilateral isometric knee extensor and flexor strength (MVC) were measured using stabilized dynamometry.ResultsNo in-between group differences in age or BMI were observed. CMJ: Between-limb asymmetry ratios for ROM differed (p < 0.01) between patients and controls in both types of CMJ (96.1% vs. 102.6% and 87.0% vs. 99.9% in bilateral and single-leg CMJs, respectively). Jump for distance: Patients demonstrated greater (p < 0.01) asymmetry for jump length (92.9% vs. 98.6%). MVC: Asymmetry in hamstring MVC was greater (p < 0.001) for patients than controls (77.4% vs. 101.3%).ConclusionsACL-patients showed reduced function of the operated leg ~2 years post ACL-reconstruction, especially for hamstring MVC. Hamstrings are important protagonists to the ACL, thus representing a potential risk factor for secondary ACL-rupture and/or osteoarthritis.