Real-Time Dynamic Assessment for the Return to Sport in ACL Injury

Background: There is a high occurrence of ACL injuries in football players. Following injury neuromuscular control, strength, mobility and stability are compromised. It is important to objectively assess these in the decision making for return to play (RTP). There is a dearth of kinematic-based criteria for RTP. PhysiMax Technology has developed 3D software for real-time, objective, functional assessment of quality of movement.

Aim: A pilot study was conducted to assess real-time dynamic assessment of the lower extremity in elite male football players.

Methods: Participants were twenty-five elite male football players (25,2 ± 4,8 years). Functional tasks were tested to assess dominant (D) and non-dominant (ND) lower limb kinematics with 3D PhysiMax Technology: bilateral drop jump task scored using Landing Error Scoring System (LESS); unsupported and supported single leg squat (SLS) to assess dynamic knee stability; dorsiflexion lunge test; and a repeated single leg vertical jump task.

Results: Mean LESS 17 and 22 scores were good to moderate (5.4 ± 2.0 and 6.6 ± 2.2 respectively). The mean unsupported SLS scores were good and symmetrical (D: 4.9 ± 1.3; ND: 4.4 ± 1.0). Footballers had moderate dynamic knee stability (D: 17.4 ± 14.4%; ND: 10.5 ± 14.7%. Mean ankle dorsiflexion on the D side was 23.7 ± 6.1^o and 25.1 ± 7.1^o the ND side. Mean unilateral vertical jump height was adequate and symmetrical (D: 35.2 ± 4.1cm; ND: 36.6 ± 4.8cm).

Conclusion: The introduction of this objective, real-time, dynamic movement assessment importantly enhances clinical decision making for return to play in football players following ACL injury.