Benefit of the Early Open Kinetic Chain on the Quadriceps Strength after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Male Soccer Players in a Context of Return to Running

Abstract

Background: The objective of this study is to determine whether the early association of the open kinetic chain (OKC) and the closed kinetic chain (CKC) allows an improvement in the strength and functional qualities of the quadriceps in the context of soccer rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Materials: A collection of prospective data on two groups of 15 subjects who all suffered an after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Each subject is assigned to a group according to the type of rehabilitation they have undergone within the center, with only CKC rehabilitation and mixed OKC and CKC rehabilitation. The protocols were introduced four weeks after ACL reconstruction. The measurements were carried out at three months on an isokinetic dynamometer to measure the peak torque (PT) and to be able to determine limb symmetry index (LSI) and the PT concerning the body weight, the relative peak torque (PT/WB). Results: After testing the LSI and the PT/WB between the two groups, there was a significant difference (p <0.05) between the LSI of the two groups and a very significant difference between the PT/WB (r=0.817; p<0.001). We have also shown a significant positive correlation between these two parameters. Conclusion: The study suggests an interest in the early association of OKC and CKC in correcting quadriceps strength deficits and improving its functional quality after ACL reconstruction.

Keywords

• anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, peak torque, open kinetic chain, early rehabilitation, limb index symmetry, soccer players.