Kinematical characteristics of lower extremity in females with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction during stair descent: Changes in joint ROM of the lower extremity

Abstract

[Purpose] The aim of this study was to elucidate the kinematic characteristics of female subjects with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) during stair descent. [Subjects] Fourteen reconstructed knees of 11 females (ACL group) and 13 healthy knees of female subjects who formed the control group were evaluated. [Methods] A 3D motion analyzer was used to measure the joint angles of the hip, knees and ankles during stair descent and static standing. [Results] Maximal internal rotation ROM (the angle difference of internal rotation of the hip joint in the standing position and the angle reached in maximal internal rotation of hip during stair descent) in the ACL group was significantly larger than in the control group. [Conclusion] This result suggests that female subjects with ACLR increase knee joint instability by internally rotating the hip joint during stair descent.