Perturbation Training vs Functional Activities on Pain, ROM, Balance, and Function Post-ACL

Effects of Perturbation Training Versus Task-oriented Functional Activities on Pain, Range of Motion, Balance and Function in Post-anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are among the most common and functionally disabling knee injuries, particularly in physically active individuals. Despite advancements in surgical techniques, optimal post-operative rehabilitation remains critical for successful functional recovery, minimizing re-injury risk, and restoring pre-injury performance levels

This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effectiveness of perturbation training and task-oriented functional activities in patients following ACL reconstruction surgery. Perturbation training is a neuromuscular re-education strategy that involves controlled, unexpected movements to enhance joint stability and proprioceptive feedback. In contrast, task-oriented functional training focuses on restoring movement through activities that mimic daily or sports-related functional tasks.

This study will be a Randomized Control Trail and will be conducted in physiogic physiotherapy clinic and Ghurki Trust and Teaching Hospital. Non-Probability Convenient Sampling will be used to collect data. Total of 54 Participants of the age 18-45 years with post 12 weeks to 1 year ACL reconstruction will be included in the study. An informed consent will be taken prior study from all the subjects. Outcomes measure will be included Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) for pain, Universal Goniometer (UG) for Range of Motion, Y balance test for Knee Stability, International Knee Documentation Committee scores, (IKDC) for Knee function

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age range: 18-45 years

Male participants only

History of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction (ACLR) of 3 to 12 months

No prior ACL surgery on the affected knee

ACL reconstruction with autograft of hamstrings tendon

Knee flexion range of motion less than 120°

Extension lag less than or equal to 10°

Pain during functional activities

Exclusion Criteria:

• Any type of fracture

Concurrent ligamentous injury or repairable meniscus

Osteochondral defect

Any systemic and/or neurological illness

Rheumatoid arthritis

Osteomyelitis or any neurological disorders

Spinal disorders

Inflammatory conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis