The Effect of Whole Body Vibration After ACLR

The Effect of Whole Body Vibration on Dynamic Knee Stability in Patients After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

This is a randomised clinical trial to detect the effect of an 8-week whole body vibration training on muscle function and dynamic knee function during single leg squat and single leg hop in patients after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

In Hong Kong, over 3000 cases of ACL reconstruction are operated annually to restore knee stability. Despite recovery of knee passive laxity and muscle strength, dynamic knee stability is often not restored. The whole body vibration has been found to improve muscle strength, proprioception and balance after ACL reconstruction. This project will investigate the effect of whole body vibration on muscle elasticity, muscle coordination and landing knee biomechanics. It may provide useful evidence to the application of whole body vibration in improving dynamic knee stability, which will lead to a significant improvement in healthcare management for ACL patients . The current study serves to provide a clinical guideline for post-ACL reconstruction rehabilitation.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Aged 18-50;
2. Physically active before injury with Tegner score more than 6 (recreational/professional sport level);
3. Scheduled for ACLR because of sport injury;
4. Be able to walk with a pair of elbow crutches independently at 1 month after ACLR.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Concomitant posterior cruciate ligament or lateral collateral ligament injury in the same knee;
2. Injury to the contralateral side;
3. Medical problems that are contradictory to WBV;
4. Prior experience of WBV to avoid any training or memory effect;
5. Women with pregnancy.