Suggestions from the field for return-to-sport rehabilitation following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: alpine skiing

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2012 Apr;42(4):313-25. doi: 10.2519/jospt.2012.4024. Epub 2012 Mar 30.

Abstract

Alpine skiing is a high-risk sport for injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). While descending a hill, a skier must resist large centrifugal forces at a high velocity, while the knees are positioned in postures that place the ACL at risk of injury. Skiers who undergo ACL reconstructive surgery are prone to a high rate of reinjury to the same knee and even ACL injury in the uninjured knee. A rehabilitation program that integrates the best current evidence of ACL rehabilitation and the science of skiing is essential to a successful return to alpine skiing. Unlike rehabilitation programs developed for court or field athletes, a skiing program must place a large emphasis on slow eccentric-loading and weight-bearing (closed-chain) power and endurance. The purpose of this clinical commentary is to provide the rehabilitation specialist such a program directed toward safely returning the athlete to alpine skiing.

MeSH terms

  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction / rehabilitation*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Knee Injuries / physiopathology
  • Knee Injuries / rehabilitation*
  • Knee Injuries / surgery
  • Male
  • Muscle Strength / physiology
  • Muscle, Skeletal / physiology
  • Physical Endurance / physiology
  • Physical Therapy Modalities
  • Recovery of Function / physiology*
  • Skiing / injuries
  • Skiing / physiology*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Weight-Bearing