Intrinsic graft laxity variation with open kinetic chain exercise after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: A non-randomized controlled study

Objectives: To determine whether quadriceps and hamstring strengthening in a rehabilitation program involving early open kinetic chain (OKC) and/or closed kinetic chain (CKC) knee joint exercises had an influence on graft laxity at 1, 3, and 6 months after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Design: Retrospective study. Methods: Two groups (n = 53) of ACLR patients (combination of OKC and CKC exercises group compared to a CKC exercise group) were recruited. OKC protocol was introduced at 2 weeks post-operatively without external resistance and progressed at 4 weeks with load. Comparative ACL graft laxity measurement and isokinetic strength testing were prospectively performed up to 6 months in both groups. Results: No significant differences were observed in the knee laxity at 1 (p = 0.263), 3 (p = 0.263), and 6 months (p = 0.256) follow up between the groups. Similarly, no significant results were observed in within-group knee laxity between 1 and 6 months after ACLR in the intervention (p = 0.155) and control group (p = 0.690). Conclusion: The early initiation of OKC along with CKC exercises doesn't seem to increase the ACLR graft laxity as compared to a rehabilitation program with only CKC exercises.