Physiotherapy and Electrical Stimulation Effects on Strength of M. Quadriceps, Knee Range of Motion and Pain in Patients Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Operation

Abstract

Background. Research aim was to analyze the quadriceps muscle strength recovery after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using electrical stimulation and physical therapy. Methods. There were two randomly selected groups, with eight people in each group. The selection criteria were that the subjects had to have anterior cruciate ligament operation six weeks prior and were very active physically. One group was for research (study group), the other one for reference (control group). The study group had electrical stimulation combined with physical therapy exercises two times a week, for 45 minutes. The control group had exercises to strengthen the
quadriceps muscle also two times a week, for 45 minutes. Both groups were tested before and after the research. The things evaluated during the test were – visual pain scale (VAS) scores, quadriceps muscle strength during extension and flexion using (R. Lovett) scoring system and goniometry showing degrees of extension and flexion. Results. Comparing both study and control groups, there was statistically signifcant improvement (p < 0.05), however the study group recovered faster and had statistically greater benefts. Conclusions. After 6 weeks of physiotherapy, the range of motion, quadriceps muscle strength increased and pain decreased in the operated leg. 1. After 6 weeks of physiotherapy and electrical stimulation, the range of motion, quadriceps muscle strength increased and pain decreased in the operated leg. 2. After 6 weeks of physiotherapy and electrical stimulation, the range of motion, quadriceps muscle strength, pain in the operated leg changed more in the study group than in subjects who received only physical therapy.

Keywords: anterior cruciate ligament, electrical stimulation, quadriceps muscle, ligament reconstruction, muscle strength.