Isokinetic torque analysis demonstrates deficits in knee flexor and extensor torque in patients at 9-12 months after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, despite peak torque symmetry.

Background: Lower limb strength asymmetry is associated with re-injury after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). This study investigated limb symmetry indices (LSIs) during isokinetic knee extensor and flexor assessment after ACLR.

Methods: Overall, 25 patients underwent isokinetic knee extensor and flexor strength assessment, 9-12 months after ACLR with a semitendinosus autograft. While patients were included if they presented with peak knee extensor (PKET) and flexor (PKFT) torque LSIs ≥ 90%, LSIs were calculated at designated points throughout the isokinetic torque range of motion, including: 15°, 30°, 45°, 60° and 75° (from 90° of knee flexion) during PKET and 15°, 30°, 45°, 60° and 75° (from full knee extension) during PKFT. T-tests investigated limb differences for PKET and PKFT, as well as at the final 75° assessment point during knee extension and flexion, between: (1) males and females, (2) those that did, or did not, undergo meniscal surgery, and (3) those undergoing ACLR on their dominant or non-dominant limb.

Results: Significant differences between limbs were observed for PKET at 15° (p = 0.040) and 75° (p = 0.002), and for PKFT at 60° (p = 0.001) and 75° (p < 0.0001). No comparative differences (p > 0.05) were seen based on gender, meniscal surgery or whether ACLR was on the dominant or non-dominant limb.

Conclusion: Despite 100% of patients demonstrating PKET and PKFT LSIs ≥ 90%, LSI differences existed at designated points throughout the knee extensor and flexor torque range of motion. Analysis of torques throughout full range should be considered in future studies, as comparison of isolated peak measures miss strength deficits.