The relationship between thigh and leg circumferences and proprioceptive sense: results of postoperative anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Abstract

Proprioceptive sense is damaged in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries and restoring joint stabilization is very important. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the relationship between the post-operative thigh and leg circumferences and proprioceptive sense on both operated and non-operated sides in patients who have undergone Semitendinosus/Gracilis ST/G (Hamstring Autograft) anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). 20 sedentary male patients aged 18-35 years who had undergone ST/G ACLR at least 6 months ago were included in the study. Leg and thigh circumferences and proprioceptive sense measurements were performed on the operated (OP) and non-operative (NONOP) sides of the patients. Leg and thigh circumferences were recorded in cm with a flexible meter. Proprioceptive sense measurements were determined at 45, 60 and 75 angles for extension (Ex) and 105, 120, 135 angles for flexion (Flx). When the findings of the patients were evaluated statistically between the operated and non-operated sides, no significant difference was found in the leg (p=0.070), thigh (p=0.403) circumferences and proprioception (Ex 45o p=0.547, Ex 60o p=0.124, Ex 75o p=0.956) (Flx 105o p=0.663, Flx 120o p=0.837, Flx 135o p=0.546). No general significance was found in the correlation analyses evaluated on both the operated and non-operated sides. There was a significant positive correlation between thigh circumference and Flx120º in terms of proprioception only on the non-operated side (p [Med-Science 2023; 12(2.000): 587-92]

Keywords

• acl reconstruction
• proprioception sense
• anterior cruciate ligament