Effects of closed versus open kinetic chain knee extensor resistance training on knee laxity and leg function in patients during the 8- to 14-week post-operative period after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Open kinetic chain (OKC) knee extensor resistance training has lost favour in ACLR rehabilitation due to concerns that this exercise is harmful to the graft and will be less effective in improving function. In this randomized, single-blind clinical trial OKC and closed kinetic chain (CKC) knee extensor training were compared for their effects on knee laxity and function in the middle period of ACLR rehabilitation. The study subjects were 49 patients recovering from ACLR surgery (37 M, 12 F; mean age=33 years). Tests were carried out at 8 and 14 weeks after ACLR with knee laxity measured using a ligament arthrometer and function with the Hughston Clinic knee self-assessment questionnaire and single leg, maximal effort jump testing (post-test only). Between tests, subjects trained using either OKC or CKC resistance of their knee and hip extensors as part of formal physical therapy sessions three times per week. No statistically significant (one-way ANOVA, p>0.05) differences were found between the treatment groups in knee laxity or leg function. OKC and CKC knee extensor training in the middle period of rehabilitation after ACLR surgery do not differ in their effects on knee laxity or leg function. Exercise dosages are described in this study and further research is required to assess whether the findings in this study are dosage specific.