Measuring Results of Rehab After ACL Repair

Physical therapists (PTs) are looking for a few good tests to measure the effectiveness of rehab after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repair. In this study, PTs from Canada evaluate the Hop Test as a measure of outcomes after ACL surgery.

The Hop Test may be a good test because it requires neuromuscular control, strength, and confidence that the leg will hold up. It is easy to administer and requires little time or equipment.

Four-hop tests were combined together and given to 42 ACL patients. All patients had surgery at the same center using the same repair and rehab methods. The first test was given 16 weeks after the ACL repair. The test was given three more times. The last test took place 22 weeks after surgery.

Analysis of the results showed that the hop test is both reliable and valid. Change in scores between the first and second tests suggest a fair amount of motor learning took place. Improved scores over the entire six-week period reflect increased strength, coordination, and confidence following recovery and rehab.

The authors conclude the Hop Test is a good way to measure outcomes after ACL repair. It's a reliable measure of leg strength and stability. The test can be used by therapists to guide treatment decisions. More importantly, it can be used to compare different treatment approaches to see which one works best.