Surgical and Biomechanical Considerations in Rehabilitation of Patients with Intra-Articular ACL Reconstructions.

The surgical and rehabilitation management of patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries has evolved rapidly over the past few decades. The purpose of this review is to present a rehabilitation strategy for intra-articular anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction based on current surgical and biomechanical factors. Advances in basic science research and surgical procedures have led to aggressive rehabilitation programs for which guidelines may need to be considered. The literature presents a variety of protocols that do not address the biomechanical differences between varying surgeries that may affect the rehabilitation process. This review will present the surgical variables and biomechanical factors associated with intra-articular ACL reconstruction that need to be considered by physical therapists when planning a rehabilitation program. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 1992;15(6):317-322.