Research

Resistance Strength Training in Anterior Cruciate

Ligament Rehabilitation

Timothy M. Hosea M.D., Dean Pinciotti, P.T., Michael F. Harrer, M.D.

Summary: To maximize the results following an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, strength training of the involved extremity is essential. However, the postoperative rehabilitation protocol must be carefully planned and progress as motion is obtained and soft tissues mobilized. Initially the strengthening program should use isometrics and closed chain exercises. As the protocol progresses, submaximal and endurance exercises are added with proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation and functional closed chain techniques, followed by maximal resistance isometric and isokinetic exercises until full reconditioning is obtained. Key Words: ACL Rehabilitation - Strength training - Muscle strength.

The article is found in Sports Medicine and Arthroscopy Review

4:31-41 Lippincott-Raven Publishers, Philadelphia