Resistance training with linear periodization is superior to the '3x10 reps protocol' after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of linear periodization (LP) resistance training after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR).

SETTING

Physiotherapy clinic.

PARTICIPANTS

Male recreational athletes who underwent ACLR.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Knee extensor and flexor isometric strength, hop tests performance, patient-reported function (International Knee Documentation Committee, IKDC), and psychological readiness (Anterior Cruciate Ligament - Return to Sport after Injury, ACL-RSI).

RESULTS

Twenty-two participants (mean age 27 ± 6 years) were randomized to either a LP program or the traditional '3x10 reps protocol'. The LP group demonstrated greater knee extensor strength gains compared to the 3x10 group (p = 0.03): 51 % (95 %CI, 28 to 73) vs. 26 % (95 %CI, 11 to 40). No statistically significant difference (p = 0.11) in knee flexor strength gains was observed between the LP group (45 %; 95 % CI, 18 to 71) and the 3x10 group (23 %; 95 % CI, 7 to 39). Six months after ACLR, the LP group exhibited a greater knee extensor limb symmetry index (97 ± 10 % vs. 85 ± 11 %, p < 0.01) and higher ACL-RSI scores (68 ± 18 vs. 53 ± 14, p = 0.04). No significant between-group differences were found in hop performance or IKDC scores (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

A resistance training program incorporating block-structured LP is more effective than the traditional '3x10 reps protocol' in enhancing knee extensor strength and psychological readiness during ACLR rehabilitation.