Functional measurement of knee joint position sense after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Abstract

Objective: To examine for differences in joint position sense (JPS) between knees with reconstructed anterior cruciate ligaments (ACLs) and uninjured knees by using a functional weight-bearing measurement method.

Design: Two-way repeated-measures in a convenience sample.

Setting: An Australian university rehabilitation laboratory.

Participants: Nine subjects presenting at 12 to 16 months after unilateral ACL reconstruction using the semitendinosus/gracilis graft who were recruited from 2 orthopedic surgeons.

Interventions: Not applicable.

Main outcome measures: JPS of the reconstructed and uninjured knees was examined by using the Peak Motus motion measurement system to record target joint angles and to calculate reproduced angles after limb movement into flexion and extension, performed in a weight-bearing position.

Results: There were no significant differences in JPS between reconstructed and uninjured knees (P=.68) or between the flexion and extension tasks (P=.47).

Conclusion: There was no deficit in knee JPS 12 to 16 months after ACL reconstruction, as measured by a functional weight-bearing method. Further studies should examine the clinical utility of the method as a way to evaluate functional aspects of knee joint proprioception.