Accelerated Rehabilitation Programme After Arthroscopic Reconstruction Of Anterior Cruciate Ligament

Abstract

Rupture of anterior cruciate ligament is a common injury during both sports and leisure time activities. Recently attention has been focused on the use of accelerated rehabilitation protocols after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. The goal of the rehabilitation after ACL reconstruction is to return to the preinjury activity level as fast as possible. The study was designed to evaluate accelerated rehabilitation programme for final knee function in patients who had ACL reconstruction. A total of 26 patients who had arthroscopic reconstruction after ACL rupture were included in the study. Accelerated rehabilitation programme was applied to all patients. The patients were reexamined on 12th week and 24th weeks. Rehabilitation programme included progressive increase in range of motion, full unassisted weight bearing, and return to participation in daily living. After explaining the exercises, the number of exercise sets and repetitions were prescribed to all patients. It was observed that the patients returned to their daily living activities on 12th week after reconstruction. Complications such as effusion, pain and stiffness of the knee joint were not observed. In conclusion, we suggest that accelerated rehabilitation is effective for early recovery of knee joint functions.