Quadriceps Torque, Peak Variability and Strength Endurance in Patients after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Impact of Local Muscle Fatigue

Abstract

We tested if ACL-reconstructed participants show a decreased quadriceps torque, a lower muscle endurance capacity and a higher peak torque variability compared to unimpaired control participants prior to and following local muscle fatigue. Participants (n = 19, 10 women; 25 ± 5yrs.) with unilateral hamstrings autograft ACL-reconstruction and a matched unimpaired control group were recruited. Participants performed two maximal isometric voluntary force (MIVF) contractions of the knee extensors. In between, standardized local muscle fatigue was induced. ACL-reconstructed knees display a lower peak torque of the knee extensors in comparison to the contralateral limb (3.2 ± .3Nm/kg vs. 3.5 ± .3 Nm/kg). Peak torque variability and fatigue resistance were not affected by local muscle fatigue (p > .05). Participants with ACL-reconstructed knees show a persistent quadriceps muscle dysfunction. This dysfunction and lower limb side asymmetries might be risk factors for ACL re-ruptures.