Abstract des Autors

This article provides the basis for development of an evaluation-based protocol of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The historical background for ACL protocols is reviewed, and the foundation for protocol development is described. Crucial to the design of a rehabilitation protocol are basic science components, including surgical technique, biomechanics of exercise application, soft tissue healing response, articular cartilage response to injury and surgery, and evaluation fundamentals. The evaluation-based protocol was designed to account for patient variation through a hierarchy approach to exercise and functional levels. To assess the effectiveness of this approach, data are provided that support this protocol format. The outcome data are consistent with data found in the literature. It is concluded that rehabilitation must revolve around intrinsic patient variables, rather than the extrinsic independent variables. Verf.-Referat