The Effects of a Rehabilitation Exercise Program After Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Reconstruction Between Genders

Abstract

OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a rehabilitation exercise program after posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction between genders. METHODS The research subjects were 22 patients who had posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. They were divided into Male Group (n=11) and Female Group (n=11). The dependent variable was Lysholm knee score, IKDC (International Knee Document Committee) score, isokinetic muscle strength of knee joint, which it was measured Pre-Op (Previous Operation) and during the 24-week rehabilitation exercise program period, it was measured at Post-Op (Post Operation) 12 and Post-Op 24 weeks. RESULTS First, significant differences by period were noted on Lysholm knee score (p<.001) and IKDC score (p<.05). Second, isokinetic strength of knee joint extension in involved side is significant differences between genders (p<.01). Third, isokinetic strength of knee joint extension in involved side has significant differences by period (p<.01). Forth, isokinetic strength of knee joint extension in uninvolved side has significant differences between genders (p<.05). Fifth, isokinetic strength of knee joint flexion in uninvolved side has significant differences between genders (p<.01). Sixth, isokinetic strength of knee joint flexion in uninvolved side has significant differences by period (p<.05). CONCLUSIONS This paper confirmed that the effect of a rehabilitation exercise program on subjective function is not influenced by gender, but by period. On the other hand, the effect of a rehabilitation exercise program on strength is influenced by not only gender, but also period. That application of rehabilitation exercise program after posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction was significant difference between groups in male and female on isokinetic strength of knee joint and by period. Therefore, we suggest that a rehabilitation exercise program should be designed differently in proper way between male and female group.