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The Effect of Single-leg 20-degree Squats Combined With Conventional Training on the Biomechanical Characteristics of Gait After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Surgery
Sponsor: Peking University Third Hospital
Summary
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are one of the most common sports injuries, with an ACL injury rate as high as 20.9% in the general population . Currently, the primary treatment for ACL tears is arthroscopic reconstruction surgery to restore knee stability and function . Following ACL injury, abnormal gait biomechanical characteristics persist, even after ACL reconstruction surgery (ACLR) and evidence-based rehabilitation therapy. These abnormal gait biomechanical characteristics remain unresolved, with the lower limbs exhibiting insufficient loading and stiffness, which are associated with quadriceps muscle dysfunction. Interventions for quadriceps atrophy following ACLR should be initiated early to prevent worsening of early knee pain, swelling, and abnormal gait. Additionally, since ACL reconstruction results in different biomechanical characteristics at various stages and gait phases, it is important to adopt more targeted and precise rehabilitation measures to correct biomechanical abnormalities and improve gait function in patients.
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 45 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
48
Start Date
2026-01-10
Completion Date
2026-04-10
Last Updated
2025-12-29
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Conditions
Interventions
single-leg 20° squat training
Both groups underwent conventional training. In addition, the experimental group underwent single-leg 20° squat training. Participants were required to stand for the exercise and hold onto a stable surface with their hands, while the unaffected lower limb hip joint was extended and the knee joint flexed to 90°. Participants were then instructed to bend the affected knee to 20° and hold this position for 10 seconds. They then fully extended the knee and rested in that position for 3-4 seconds. The load form can be dumbbells.
regular training
In the 1-8 week rehabilitation program, the goal is to strengthen the muscle strength of the affected knee joint and gradually introduce functional movement exercises, while avoiding forceful flexion and extension of the knee. The specific rehabilitation program includes: prone leg curl exercises, quadriceps resistance band training, hamstring progressive resistance exercises, backward lunge exercises, in-place small jumps, knee joint flexion with appropriate cushioning, in-place squat jumps, landing and immediately squatting for stability, repeated 15 times, each lasting 2-3 seconds, performed 2-3 sets per week, totaling 3 sessions; Wall-supported static squat exercises, repeated 5 times, performed 2-3 sets per week, totaling 3 sessions.