Knee extensor function in patients who underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction influences subjective performance after return to sports

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to clarify the impact of knee extensor muscle function on self-perceived performance in patients after returning to sports following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.

Methods: The inclusion criteria were individuals who underwent their first ACL reconstruction at our hospital from April 2014 to March 2019. Exclusion criteria included revision surgeries, professional or semi-professional athletes, and incomplete data. We compared the pre-injury and one-year postoperative self-perceived performance levels and categorized participants into two groups: those with performance levels above 80 % and those below 80 %. Knee extensor muscle function was measured using the Biodex System 3. Statistical analysis was conducted using multivariate logistic regression.

Results: The analysis included 93 participants. A significant association was found between the self-perceived performance level and the 0.18-second muscle force exertion ratio to body weight on the affected side.

Conclusion: The 0.18-second muscle force exertion ratio to body weight significantly influenced self-perceived performance levels in patients after returning to sports following ACL reconstruction.