The effect of progressive eccentric and concentric training on functional performance after autogenous hamstring anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a randomized controlled study

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the functional results of an early onset progressive eccentric and concentric training in patients with autogen hamstring anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. METHODS: Thirty-three patients with autogenous hamstring ACL reconstruction were randomly divided into study (n=16, mean age; 33.87±8.19) and control (n=17, mean age; 32.64±8.21) groups and followed the same ACL rehabilitation program. Additionally, the study group followed a progressive eccentric and concentric training for 12 weeks on the Monitorized Functional Squat System (MFSS) beginning 3 weeks after surgery. The groups were compared according to the isokinetic strength of the knee extensors and flexors, functional performance (the vertical jump test, a single hop for distance test) and the Lysholm knee scale, the Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Quality of Life Questionnaire (ACL-QOL), before and 16 weeks after the surgery. RESULTS: The functional outcomes in terms of the vertical jump test (p=0.012), a single hop-for-distance test (p=0.027), the Lysholm knee scale (p=0.002) and the ACL-QOL questionnaire (p=0.000) demonstrated significantly greater improvement in the study group. No significant difference was reported between groups for isokinetic strength of the knee extensors and flexors (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: Adding progressive eccentric and concentric exercises to the standard rehabilitation protocol may improve the functional results after ACL reconstruction with autogen hamstring grafts.