ASSESSMENT OF CORE STRENGTH AFTER ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION DURING SINGLE-LEG SQUATS

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Fatima Ali
Rabia Rahim
Misha
Waqas Waheed
Salwa Atta

Abstract

Background: Core strength plays a pivotal role in dynamic stability and efficient force transmission. Inadequate core and hip muscle strength often contribute to knee valgus, which increases the risk of non-contact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. With ACL injuries being prevalent in team sports, there is a growing need for effective rehabilitation strategies. This study addresses a notable gap in understanding the relationship between core strength and single-leg squat (SLS) performance in patients post-ACL reconstruction, providing valuable insights to optimize rehabilitation practices.


Objective: To assess the impact of core strength on single-leg squat performance in individuals following ACL reconstruction.


Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed, including 72 participants selected using non-probability convenient sampling. The study was conducted at Lahore Medical and Dental College over six months. Inclusion criteria included individuals aged 18-40 years with a history of unilateral ACL reconstruction, a stable graft, full knee range of motion, and completion of rehabilitation. Core strength was measured using the Plank Test, while SLS performance was graded using a three-point ordinal scale ("Good," "Fair," and "Poor"). SPSS version 24.0 was used for data analysis, and results were reported as mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentages.


Results: The mean plank hold time was 51.58 seconds (SD = 30.47), with durations ranging from 7 to 130 seconds. SLS grading revealed 45.8% of participants performed in the “Good” category, 29.5% in “Fair,” and 25% in “Poor.” These findings demonstrate a positive association between core strength, as measured by plank hold time, and improved SLS performance.


Conclusion: Enhanced core strength significantly improves SLS performance in individuals post-ACL reconstruction. Incorporating core stability training into rehabilitation programs is critical for optimizing lower limb function and reducing the risk of re-injury.

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Author Biographies

Fatima Ali, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, UBAS, Pakistan.

Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, UBAS, Pakistan.

Rabia Rahim, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, UBAS, Pakistan.

Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, UBAS, Pakistan.

Misha, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, UBAS, Pakistan.

Demonstrator, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, UBAS, Pakistan.

Waqas Waheed, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, UBAS, Pakistan.

Lecturer, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, UBAS, Pakistan.

Salwa Atta, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, UBAS, Pakistan.

Assistant Professor, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, UBAS, Pakistan.