Single-leg vertical jump test as a functional test after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to identify the correlations between the single-leg vertical jump (SLVJ) test and subjective and objective tests which were used widely for determining return-to-sports (RTS) after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR).

METHODS

Seventy-five patients (29.5 ± 9.2 years) who underwent ACLR between May 2012 and Jan 2014 were included. Subjective knee scoring systems including subjective International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, Lysholm score, Tegner activity scale, and ACL-Return to Sports after Injury (ACL-RSI) scale were assessed. Objective tests were also performed.

RESULTS

The limb symmetry index (LSI) for SLVJ test and single-leg hop for distance (SLHD) test was 89.4 ± 14.9% and 90.7 ± 11.7%. LSI for SLVJ test was correlated to subjective IKDC scores (r = 0.26, P = 0.024), Tegner activity scale (r = 0.64, P < 0.001), ACL-RSI scale (r = 0.61, P < 0.001), LSI for SLHD (r = 0.45, P < 0.001), Co-contraction (r = -0.57, P < 0.001), Shuttle run (r = -0.52, P < 0.001), and Carioca (r = -0.54, P < 0.001) tests. In isokinetic strength tests, extensor peak torque (r = 0.30, P = 0.009) and extensor strength deficit (r = -0.41, P < 0.001) were correlated with LSI for SLVJ test.

CONCLUSION

There were considerable correlations between SLVJ test and subjective IKDC scores, Tegner activity scale, ACL-RSI scale, isokinetic extensor muscle strength, and all other functional tests. SLVJ test could be used conveniently to determine RTS after ACLR in outpatient clinics.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, case series.