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Lower-Extremity Assessment Protocol

Presenters Name: 
Tsega Fisseha
Primary Research Mentor: 
Joe Hart
Secondary Research Mentor: 
Stephan Bodkin
Session: 
4
Location: 
South Meeting Room
Grant Program Recipient: 
USOAR Program
Abstract: 

Every year, approximately 200,000 people tear their anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Of that population, half go on to reconstructive surgery (ACLR). However, statistics have proven that once an ACL is torn, a second tear is more likely to occur in either knee, given the same activity level is sustained. The purpose of this study is to use muscle symmetry data to determine an individual's likelihood and risk of another tear. Data is collected from participants 6 months post-ACLR. Ages are average 21.7 ± 7.8. Though the study is ongoing, 38 female and 42 male participants have done LEAP, for a total of 80 people. The study begins with muscle strength assessment using the Biodex for the Isokinetic Knee Extension. This is followed by hoping tests, including the Triple Hop. The data gathered through testing shows that just 10% of participants were able to pass the Isokinetic Knee Extension test at 90’/s, as opposed to the 62.3% who passed the Triple Hop. This shows the those recovering from ACLR use compensatory methods to accomplish tasks can be done more efficiently with other body parts. The new findings suggest that ACLR rehabilitation needs to target finding a muscular balance before athletes are cleared to return to sport.