Study regarding the monitoring and optimisation in athletes’ rehabilitation after cruciate ligaments injuries arthroscopically assisted

Abstract

Six months after a meniscectomy associated with a cruciate ligament reconstruction the athlete has the force parameter regained, but the velocity and power not necessary regained. The aim of the present study was to make a comparative analyses between results of the classical rehabilitation program for athletes and a special program to improve velocity and power based on plyometric exercises. The patients was evaluated with the universal used subjectives methods (IKDC score, Lysholm scale, thigh perimeter measurement, Hop test) and using Myotest Accelerometer – rapid and very accurate test in the determination of the mechanical parameters of the performance - force, velocity and power. The combination between evaluation with subjective tests and objective measurements of force, power and velocity with the help of Myotest has proved to be a rigorous method to appreciate the athletes’ rehabilitation. Having in mind that six months after a meniscectomy associated with a cruciate ligament reconstruction the athlete has the force parameter regained, but the velocity and power not necessary regained, we have done a comparative study where the witness group (20 performance athletes) was treated with the classical rehabilitation program and the experimental group (20 performance athletes) has associated a special program to improve velocity and power based on plyometric exercises. This study underline that using a program with highlights in the rehabilitation of all three mechanical parameters of the movement (force, velocity, power), an athlete can safely return to his sports activity, with optimal values for all parameters.

Key words:

rehabilitation, cruciate ligaments, plyometric exercises, accelerometry