Effects of both hip and traditional strengthening exercises on early outcomes post anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Background. Lower extremity muscles weakness occur after the reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACLR), specifically the hip muscles. The literature suggests that decreased hip strength which results from ACLR can lead to biomechanical changes in lower extremity. Objective. The aim of the current study was to assess effects of adding hip strengthening exercises with traditional strengthening exercises on early outcomes after ACLR. Materials and methods. Randomized controlled study was conducted on 50 male participants with primary unilateral ACLR, they were tested pre-operative and after 12 weeks postoperative; for pain intensity by visual analog scale (VAS), side to side difference knee extension limitation range of motion (ROM) by goniometer, and lower extremity function tests by side-to-side single-leg hop test and 10-yards test. They were assigned into two groups; group A (hip strengthening exercises with traditional strengthening exercises) and group B (traditional strengthening exercises only). Both groups received the treatment 3 sessions/week for 12 weeks. Results. The results of independent t-test showed that there were significant improvements (p < 0.05) in all variables (pain intensity, side to side difference knee extension limitation ROM, side-to-side single-leg hop test and 10-yards test) in both groups with superiority of group A. Conclusion. Adding of hip strengthening exercises to traditional strengthening exercises were effective on early outcomes post ACLR.