Neuromuscular training versus strength training during first 6 months after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a randomized clinical trial.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of a 6-month neuromuscular training (NT) program versus a traditional strength training (ST) program following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.


METHODS
Seventy-four subjects with ACL reconstruction participated in the study.


METHODS
The study was a randomized, single-blinded, controlled trial. The NT and ST groups were tested preoperatively and at 3 and 6 months. The main outcome measure was the Cincinnati Knee Score. Secondary outcome measures were visual analog scales (VASs) for pain and function, the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), hop tests, isokinetic muscle strength, proprioception, and static and dynamic balance tests.


RESULTS
The NT group demonstrated significantly improved Cincinnati Knee Scores and VAS scores for global knee function compared with the ST group at the 6-month follow-up. There were no significant differences between the groups for the other outcome measures (ie, hop, balance, proprioception, and muscle strength tests).


CONCLUSIONS
The results of this study suggest that exercises included in the NT program should be part of the rehabilitation program following ACL reconstruction.
Risberg
May Arna
MA
Norwegian Research Center for Active Rehabilitation, Ullevaal University Hospital, Oslo, Norway. mayarnarisberg@hotmail.com
Holm
Inger
I
Myklebust
Grethe
G
Engebretsen
Lars
L
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D016118:Anterior Cruciate Ligament / Q000601:surgery; D000070598:Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries; D005081:Exercise Therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007593:Joint Instability / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D007718:Knee Injuries / Q000534:rehabilitation* / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D053580:Muscle Strength; D010147:Pain Measurement; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D020127:Recovery of Function; D016037:Single-Blind Method; D016896:Treatment Outcome