Effects of strengthening exercises on the functional recovery of patients submitted to anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: an integrative review

Abstract

Introduction: The lesion of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), frequently occurs among practitioners of activities of great impact and changes of direction, because these individuals present a greater load of tension and develop small damages to the ligament that may cause rupture, requiring surgical reconstruction of the ACL. Decreased strength after reconstruction has been linked to poor function and altered biomechanics, interfering with routine activities of daily living, thus making it unfeasible to return to sports activities. Objective: To analyze the efficacy of strengthening exercises in functional recovery after ACL reconstruction. Methods: This research is an integrative review based on complete articles published in the last 10 years indexed in PubMed and Portal Periódicos CAPES. To select the articles the following keywords were used: "Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction" AND "Exercise Therapy"; "Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries" AND "Exercise Therapy". Results: 36 articles were found, and 5 articles were selected. They were unanimous in presenting significantly positive results in the use of exercises in functional rehabilitation after ACL reconstruction. Conclusion: It is concluded that exercise therapy is effective for individuals undergoing ACL reconstruction, the improvement of functionality and the return to routine activities or sports are directly related to exercise therapy.