Better and early recovery in ACL reconstructed elite players with addition of core stability exercises in postoperative rehabilitation program

Abstract

Role of core stability exercises in ACL rehabilitation program is not well studied. To study the effect of addition of core stability exercise on outcome of ACL reconstruction surgery. Ninety-two male sportspersons (18–40 years) who underwent ACL reconstruction were enrolled in the study. Sportspersons were divided into two groups depending upon the computer-generated random number sequence—group A (conventional rehabilitation; n = 46) and group B (core stabilization + conventional rehabilitation; n = 46). All sportspersons were assessed at 6, 9 and 12 months for the functional outcome (IKDC score, single hop test, triple hop test, and VAS score), return to sports, and knee laxity (KT-1000). IKDC scores were higher in group B as compared to group A at all follow-ups (p < 0.05). Similarly, single and triple hop test jump distances were wider in group B as compared to group A at all the follow-ups (p < 0.05). Incidence of return to sports was significantly higher in group B (35/45) as compared to group A (24/43; p = 0.02). Mean time to return to sports was 10.77 ± 1.7 months in group A and 9.44 ± 1.8 in group B (p = 0.006). There was no difference in knee laxity between the two groups. The addition of core stability exercises in the ACL rehabilitation program results in better functional outcome and early return to sports. However, core stability exercises have no effect on knee stability. Level III, prospective observational study.