Non-operative treatment of anterior cruciate ligament injuries

The purpose of this study was to assess and describe the status of 103 athletes who were admitted via the Hacettepe University School of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Sports Medicine Unit's out-patient sports clinic from 1990 to 1994, with a diagnosis of an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. They participated in a non-operative programme of rehabilitation emphasizing strengthening of the hamstrings. The knees were evaluated by testing stability, strength and range of motion, by X-ray examination and comparison to the uninjured knee. Ice, interferential, ultrasound and physiotherapy were used in the rehabilitation programme. During the study period, nine of the patients had an ACL reconstruction but the 94 patients treated without surgery were satisfied with the improvement in their knee function and activity level after 3-8 months of physiotherapy. The results showed a high incidence of anterior stability, but no significantly different changes in range of motion. Eighty-nine patients returned to some sports participation, with 72 (76.6%) returning to their full pre-injury level of participation.