Lower extremity muscle strength, postural stability and functional movement screen in female basketball players after ACL reconstruction : Preliminary report

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is a common injury in basketball. Its consequence is a long absence from training, resulting from surgical treatment and long physiotherapy. The aim of the study was to assess muscle strength, postural stability and functional movements in female basketball players, who returned to professional sport careers after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Methods: The study population consisted of 10 female basketball players after surgical reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament. The control group consisted of 10 players without ACL injury. We used the Biodex System 4 Pro dynamometer to assess the muscle strength of the knee. We used it to conduct the test of flexors and extensors of the knee in isokinetic conditions. We also used Keiser Power Squat A300 in the single leg squat to measure power and the Biodex Balance SD dynamographic platform to assess balance in single leg stance. Results: We found deficits in both movement patterns and in muscle strength in the study population, compared to control group. Conclusions: The basketball players after ACL reconstruction had significant differences between the operated and non-operated limb. The differences may predispose them towards repeated ACL injuries