Benefit of isokinetic evaluations of knee before and after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in soccer players]

AIM: The aim of this study was to analyse the evolution of the isokinetic performance of the knee flexor and extensor muscles in soccer players before and after intra-articular anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (Kennet-Jones). METHODS: Two isokinetic evaluations were carried out before surgery and after rehabilitation (i.e. 4 months later) in 18 soccer players. RESULTS: The initial evaluation showed that the stabilizing muscles of the knee were affected differently after lesion of the external anterior crossed ligament. At the opposite of the flexor muscles, the performance of the knee extensor muscles of the injured leg was significantly reduced as compared with that of the healthy leg (peak torque at 90 degrees /s, -16%; power at 180 degrees /s, -14%; total work at 240 degrees /s, -11%). Even if 4 months after surgery, this deficit was accentuated (peak torque at 90 degrees /s, -26%; power at 180 degrees /s, -23%; total work at 240 degrees /s, -19%), the preoperative results of the knee extensor muscle do not condition the postoperative performance. CONCLUSION: After a rupture of the external anterior crossed ligament, a regular program of isokinetic evaluation of the knee seems to be relevant in the follow-up of the wounded athlete. The evaluation before surgery can be used as reference, and from a psychological point of view, this evaluation can create confidence in the athlete during hospitalization. A second evaluation 4 months after surgery can be used to quantify the muscular deficit to direct the exercises of rehabilitation.