Neuromuscular training optimises knee function after arthroscopic ACL reconstruction.

Question: Does neuromuscular training improve knee function more than traditional strength training following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction? Design: Randomised controlled trial. Setting: Two outpatient rehabilitation clinics in Norway. Patients: 74 adults aged between 16 and 40 years (mean: 28 years), scheduled for arthroscopic reconstruction of the ACL using an autogenous bone-patellar tendon-bone graft. Exclusion criteria included age of ACL injury more than 3 years, meniscal damage requiring repair, or previous injury or surgery to either knee. Participants were allocated to one of two rehabilitation programs using concealed allocation. Interventions: A 6-month rehabilitation program was commenced during the second week after surgery following a home program to restore knee range of movement and reduce swelling. Exercises were supervised by physiotherapists during clinic visits twice per week. Knee braces were not used at any time. The neuromuscular training group performed balance exercises, plyometric exercises, agility drills, and sportspecific exercises. The strength training group performed mainly strengthening exercises of the lower extremity Neuromuscular training optimises knee function after arthroscopic ACL reconstruction