Eccentric Phase Biomechanics of the Countermovement Jump After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Summary

Purpose: This study aims to better understand how force is produced during a vertical jump in individuals approximately six months after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction compared with healthy individuals. After this type of knee surgery, many patients recover well clinically but may still present strength differences between the operated and non-operated leg. These differences are not always visible during routine clinical testing but may influence performance and potentially increase the risk of reinjury. By analyzing how force is generated during a standardized countermovement jump, this study seeks to identify whether biomechanical alterations persist at this stage of recovery and to improve decision-making related to rehabilitation and return to sport.

Study Design: This is an observational comparative study. Participants who have undergone anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using a hamstring tendon graft will be assessed between five and seven months after surgery. Their results will be compared with those of healthy recreationally active individuals without a history of recent knee injury. No experimental treatment or modification of rehabilitation will be introduced as part of this study.

Procedures: Participants will complete a brief standardized warm-up followed by three maximal vertical countermovement jumps performed on a force platform. During the test, participants will keep their hands on their hips and will be instructed to jump as quickly and as high as possible. The force platform measures ground reaction forces from each leg separately, allowing detailed analysis of the lowering phase (when the body bends before jumping) and the push-off phase (when the body propels upward). The entire testing session lasts only a few minutes and reflects movements commonly used in rehabilitation and sports settings.

Measurements: The primary measurements include jump height and the mean force produced by each leg during both the eccentric (lowering) and concentric (push-off) phases of the jump. The study will also calculate limb symmetry indices to determine the degree of difference between the operated and non-operated legs. These measurements provide objective information about neuromuscular recovery and functional performance after surgery.

Risks: The procedures involve physical activity comparable to exercises already performed during standard rehabilitation. The risks are minimal and similar to those encountered during routine physical training. Participants may stop the test at any time if they experience discomfort.

Potential Benefits: Participants may not receive direct personal benefit from taking part in the study. However, the results may contribute to improving rehabilitation strategies, refining criteria used for return-to-sport decisions, and enhancing long-term functional outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. A better understanding of persistent biomechanical alterations may ultimately help reduce the risk of secondary injury and optimize recovery pathways.

Conditions

• Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury
• Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation

Interventions

OTHER

Countermovement Jump Force Platform Assessment

Participants perform three maximal countermovement jumps on a calibrated force platform after a standardized warm-up. Hands are kept on the hips during testing. The platform records ground reaction forces from each limb separately during the eccentric (lowering) and concentric (push-off) phases of the jump. Jump height and limb symmetry indices are calculated. This procedure is used for biomechanical and functional assessment only and does not modify standard rehabilitation.

OTHER

Isokinetic Test

isokinetic dynamometry is performed to assess concentric quadriceps and hamstring strength at standardized angular velocities. Peak torque values and limb symmetry indices are calculated for quadriceps and hamstring

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Haute Ecole ARC Sante

  lead OTHER

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Max Age

40 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

Yes

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2022-03-02

Primary Completion

2025-03-31

Completion

2025-03-31

Countries

• Switzerland

Study Locations