5 Ways to Combat Quadriceps Weakness After ACL-Reconstruction Surgery | Ask FPF E:24

By dpope2020

April 7, 2023

acl exercises, acl injury, acl reconstruction, acl recovery, acl rehab, acl rehabilitation, acl strengthening exercises, acl surgery, acl surgery ke 2 month baad exercise, acl surgery recovery, acl surgery shorts, athletictrainer, chiro, chiropractic, correctiveexercise, DPT, DPTstudent, exercise, fitness, knee surgery, mobility, personaltrainer, physical therapist, physical therapy, physicaltherapist, physicaltherapy, physio, physiotherapy, sportsrehab, strengthandconditioning

5 Ways to Combat Quadriceps Weakness After ACL-Reconstruction Surgery | Ask FPF E:24

In today's episode we go over 5 Ways to Combat Quadriceps Weakness After ACL-Reconstruction Surgery | Ask FPF E:24

As physical therapists, we know that regaining quadriceps strength is crucial for successful rehabilitation following ACL reconstruction surgery. The quadriceps muscles play a significant role in knee stabilization and shock absorption, making them essential for optimal function and long term outcomes.

Following ACL surgery, the quadriceps muscles can become weakened due to immobilization, pain, and muscle atrophy and overall arthrogenic muscle inhibition due to surgery and prior injury. 

To prevent negative outcomes, it is essential to prioritize quadriceps strengthening exercises in the rehabilitation process.   As physical therapists, we can use a variety of techniques to progress quadriceps strengthening exercises appropriately.  Some treatments to try along with exercise are:

  1. Cryotherapy
  2. Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES)
  3. Blood Flow Restriction Training
  4. Biofeedback
  5. Contralateral Limb Training

Watch the video below to learn more about these treatments:

In conclusion, regaining quadriceps strength after ACL reconstruction surgery is crucial for optimal function and long term outcome. As physical therapists, we must prioritize quadriceps strengthening exercises and use appropriate techniques to progress our patients' exercise programs to ensure their successful rehabilitation. With consistent effort and guidance, our patients can regain their quadriceps strength and return to their daily activities and sport safely and effectively.

Quad up!

Dan Pope DPT, OCS, CSCS

Show Notes / Relevant Articles:

Want to support me and decide topics for future episodes?  Click HERE to sign up for FPF "Insiders" for just a dollar. You'll gain access to 100+ webinars, e-books and complete guides.  Plus, you'll get private access to the "Insiders" Facebook group where you can have all of your questions answered by me.  

Looking for other ways to support me that are 100% free?

  • Like, comment and share on youtube, facebook and instagram 
  • Leave a 5-star review on apple podcasts

Thank you!

Dan Pope DPT, OCS, CSCS

References:

  1. Hart JM, Kuenze CM, Diduch DR, Ingersoll CD. Quadriceps muscle function after rehabilitation with cryotherapy in patients with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. J Athl Train. 2014 Nov-Dec;49(6):733-9. doi: 10.4085/1062-6050-49.3.39. PMID: 25299442; PMCID: PMC4264644.

  2. Hauger AV, Reiman MP, Bjordal JM, Sheets C, Ledbetter L, Goode AP. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation is effective in strengthening the quadriceps muscle after anterior cruciate ligament surgery. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. 2018 Feb;26(2):399-410. doi: 10.1007/s00167-017-4669-5. Epub 2017 Aug 17. PMID: 28819679.

  3. Koc BB, Truyens A, Heymans MJLF, Jansen EJP, Schotanus MGM. Effect of Low-Load Blood Flow Restriction Training After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review. Int J Sports Phys Ther. 2022 Apr 1;17(3):334-346. doi: 10.26603/001c.33151. PMID: 35391871; PMCID: PMC8975583.

  4. Christanell F, Hoser C, Huber R, Fink C, Luomajoki H. The influence of electromyographic biofeedback therapy on knee extension following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a randomized controlled trial. Sports Med Arthrosc Rehabil Ther Technol. 2012 Nov 6;4(1):41. doi: 10.1186/1758-2555-4-41. PMID: 23126601; PMCID: PMC3582470.

  5. Minshull C, Gallacher P, Roberts S, Barnett A, Kuiper JH, Bailey A. Contralateral strength training attenuates muscle performance loss following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction: a randomised-controlled trial. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2021 Dec;121(12):3551-3559. doi: 10.1007/s00421-021-04812-3. Epub 2021 Sep 20. PMID: 34542671.