Walking-to-Jogging Transition Criteria after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Soccer Players: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Objective. To identify the criteria for transition from walking to jogging training in soccer players after ACL reconstructive surgery. Methods. We have conducted a literature synthesis process using Arksey & O’Mal-ley’s methodology to answer precise research questions. The questions identified for conducting it were: A) What are the clinical criteria and the timing for prescribing return to running after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in soccer players? B) What are the postural/functional criteria for prescribing a return to jogging after ACL reconstruction in soccer players? To answer these questions, we performed a literature search of the last six years (January 2018-February 2024) on Web of Science, PEDro, SPORTDiscus, Google Scholar, and PubMed electronic biomedical data-base. Results. The return to jogging is not related to the time of surgery but to the achieve-ment of the following goals: a) Complete range of motion (ROM) of the knee; b) No pain; c) No effusion (swelling); d) IKDC >90/100; e) Triple crossover hop test of uninjured side; f) Single leg hop tests >90% of uninjured side; g) Single leg squat test or step up without increase in knee valgus/varus; h) Trendelenburg sign negative; i) Pelvic drop negative; l) physiological ratio Q/H; m) Sufficient quality of movement during foundation technical and athletic skills. The timing for return to jogging is about 12 weeks after reconstructive surgery. Conclusions. Transitioning from walking to jogging training requires the athlete to achieve precise clinical, rehabilitation, and postural/functional objectives.