Rehabilitation after Reconstruction of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament

Abstract

We report our 10-year experience with fifty patients participating in an annual rehabilitation protocol after reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament. During the past two years, the rehabilitation protocol was changed to better meet patient's demands for a more specific program centered on their specific needs, particularly concerning occupational activities in the mountains or sports activities. One of the changes involved a delayed protocol for knee dynamization late after reconstruction surgery. The patients were followed through eight months after surgery. Eleven patients were selected on clinical criteria and occupational activity or sports level for participation in a specific 15-day protocol conducted 5 to 6 months after surgery. All patients were satisfied and were able to resume their former activities after completing the rehabilitation protocol. They emphasized the positive effects in terms of self-confidence. This retrospective analysis of preliminary results is insufficient to conclude on the superiority of this specific protocol. A further comparative study will be required to draw definite conclusions. Objective analysis using isokinetic assessment should be helpful.