Three-Dimensional Gait Analysis of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Before and After Injury

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to identify clinical reference for the diagnosis of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. We compared the knee flexion extension rotation angle (FERA), internal and external rotation angle (IERA) and varus eversion rotation angle (VERA) before and after ACL injury. Study design: Cohort study (Diagnosis); Level of evidenceII. Methods: In the control group, 15 health volunteers (male: 6; female: 9) was included. In the ACL injury group, 15 subjects (male: 6; female: 9) with ACL injury on single knee were included. Three-dimensional motion system was used to analyze FERA, IERA and VERA during the stance and swing phases of a gait cycle. Results: The results showed that FERA, IERA and VERA were significantly different between the ACL injury group and the healthy control group. In the swing phase of a gait cycle, knee flexion angle, tibial external rotation and varus reached maximum. In the stance phase of a gait cycle, the extension, tibial internal rotation, varus angles reached maximum. In the healthy control group, FERA, IERA and VERA varied within a narrow range, while in the ACL injury group, FERA, IERA and VERA varied at a significantly larger range. Conclusions: We concluded that FERA, IERA and VERA can be used as diagnostic reference for ACL injury. Accurate data from gait analysis can provide scientific guidance for postoperative rehabilitation.